If you’ve been around golf for a while, then you’ve probably come across the term ‘Greensome’; it’s quite common in club golf and is a great way to have a bit of fun on the golf course and make your game more interesting.
It’s often referred to as a ‘Scottish Foursome’ and has a similar concept to a foursome (alternate shots) but with a twist. We’re going to have a look at some of the rules around playing greensomes, so grab your balls and get warmed up, we’re hitting the green!
WHAT ARE THE RULES OF A GREENSOME?
Greensome rules are very similar to those of a foursome – with one change. You have two people playing, often against another pair, and both players tee off, they then choose the best tee shot and play from that position. It’s helpful to not just look at the distance when choosing the best shot, but the position, hazards and potential following shots.
The player who didn’t play the best tee shot takes the next shot, then the players play alternate shots until the hole is complete. This is repeated at the start of each hole, with both players hitting a tee shot. A greensome can be played both casually and as part of a tournament and there’s no different equipment needed, just teamwork and strategy.
HOW DO YOU SCORE A GREENSOME?
As with any golf game, the goal is to finish the hole with the lowest number of shots possible. A greensome can be a match play – with the team with the lowest score on a hole winning that hole, or stroke play – where the team’s total number of strokes is calculated over 18 holes.
HOW DO YOU WORK OUT HANDICAPS FOR GREENSOMES?
According to the World Handicap System (WHS) the allowance works out by adding 60% of the lowest handicap to 40% of the highest.
For example, player A has a handicap of five, while player B has a handicap of 15. This works out as:
Player A: 5 x 0.6 = 3
Player B: 15 x 0.4 = 6
3 + 6 = 9
So 9 is your greensome handicap.
If the handicaps are equal, then just halve them, for example, two players with a handicap of eight would have a handicap of eight.
HOW DO YOU CHOOSE A PARTNER, AND IS A GREENSOME SUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS?
A greensome is great for all abilities and works well with a mixed-ability pair, so it’s perfectly suitable for a beginner. The key is to play with someone whose game you understand and whose strengths and weaknesses compliment yours, and vice versa, then you can employ tactics that help you play to your abilities, keeping your strengths and weaknesses in mind.
It’s also a good way for newer players to learn, as the player not taking the shot can give advice. That’s not to say more experienced players can’t still learn too though. It’s also important for both players to be patient if the other makes a mistake or plays a shot differently to how they would.
OTHER TIPS
- Try to keep a good pace; with two players teeing off it could take longer so you’ll need to play your shot and then make a quick decision.
- As always when on a golf course, respect other players – wait your turn and don’t disturb anyone else.
- Putt strategically; think about the strengths of your partner and the order of shots when taking longer, or more complicated shots. Think ahead and make sure the best putter plays towards the hole.
- Be prepared to compromise on the type of ball used, as your partner might have different preferences. If you find out before the game, then you can practice beforehand.
- Resist the urge to finish the hole. Golf is an individual game and you’ll be used to being guided by your instincts, but you can’t do that when you’re taking alternate shots and your partner may be the one tapping the ball in, not you.
- Keep practising.
A greensome is all about fun and strategy, there’s a sense of camaraderie involved and it’s a great way to add a bit of excitement to your game. Each hole has a unique challenge and communication is key; you may even learn a few new techniques.
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