Can You Play With A Group of More Than Four Golfers?

Can You Play Golf with More Than 4 Golfers in a Group? A Guide to Group Golf Etiquette and Best Ball Play

When it comes to hitting the links with friends, the standard group size is four golfers, also known as a “foursome.” However, many golfers wonder if it’s possible to play with more than four people in a group. Whether you’re organizing a casual outing or planning to play a best ball format, it’s important to understand the rules, etiquette, and best practices for larger golf groups.

Is It Allowed to Play Golf with More Than 4 Golfers in a Group?

The short answer is: it depends. The traditional limit for a golf group is four players, as this size helps keep the pace of play smooth and ensures that everyone on the course can enjoy their round without delays. Most golf courses adhere strictly to this rule, especially during peak times, to maintain the flow of play.

However, some courses are more lenient, particularly during off-peak hours, and may allow groups of five or even six players. These larger groups are often referred to as “fivesomes” or “sixesomes.” If you’re considering playing with more than four golfers, the first step is to check with the course management. Many courses will allow larger groups under specific conditions, such as playing during less busy times or ensuring that the group keeps up with the pace of play.

Challenges of Playing with More Than 4 Golfers

While playing golf with more than four people can be a fun way to enjoy the game with a larger group of friends, it does come with some challenges. The primary concern is the pace of play. Larger groups tend to take longer to complete a hole, which can lead to backups and frustration for other players on the course. This is why many courses enforce the four-player limit strictly during busy times.

Another challenge is the logistics of managing a larger group. More players mean more shots, more time spent searching for balls, and more potential for confusion. It’s essential to have a well-organized plan, especially if you’re playing in a casual or competitive format like best ball.

Playing Best Ball with a Larger Group

Best ball is a popular format for group golf, particularly in larger groups. In a best ball game, each player in the group plays their own ball throughout the hole, but only the best score among the group is counted. This format allows for friendly competition while still maintaining a reasonable pace of play, as it minimizes the number of shots that need to be counted.

If you’re playing best ball with more than four golfers, there are a few tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable round:

1. Split into Smaller Groups: Even if you’re all playing together, consider splitting the larger group into smaller teams of two or three. Each team can still play best ball, but this approach helps reduce the number of shots being taken on each hole, speeding up play.

2. Maintain Pace of Play: One of the key benefits of best ball is that it typically moves faster than traditional stroke play. However, with more than four golfers, it’s crucial to keep up with the group ahead of you. Be mindful of your pace, and encourage your group to play ready golf—where players hit when ready, rather than waiting for the furthest player to go first.

3. Use Multiple Tees: To keep things moving, consider having different teams or groups play from different tees. This allows one group to tee off while the other group is still finishing up their shots on the green.

4. Respect Course Etiquette: Larger groups can be a bit more disruptive on the course, so it’s important to be extra mindful of other players. Keep noise levels down, repair divots, and ensure that everyone in the group is ready to play when it’s their turn.

Alternatives to Playing with More Than 4 Golfers

If you have a group larger than four and the course doesn’t allow it, or if you’re concerned about pace of play, there are alternative ways to enjoy the day together:

1. Divide into Smaller Groups: Split the group into two foursomes and play in separate groups. You can still compete against each other by comparing scores at the end of the round or using a format like match play where the smaller groups compete head-to-head.

2. Organize a Scramble: A scramble is another popular format for larger groups. In a scramble, each player in the group tees off, and the best shot is selected. All players then hit their next shot from that location, and this process continues until the ball is holed. Scrambles are great for team play and help keep the pace of play faster, even with larger groups.

3. Host a Golf Tournament: If you regularly golf with a large group of friends, consider organizing a small tournament. This way, you can all play in smaller groups, but still enjoy the competition and camaraderie of a larger gathering.

Conclusion: The Fun of Group Golf and Keeping It Fair

Playing golf with more than four golfers can be a lot of fun, but it requires careful planning and consideration of course rules and etiquette. Whether you’re playing best ball or another format, the key is to keep the pace of play brisk and to be respectful of other players on the course. Always check with the course beforehand to ensure that larger groups are allowed, and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary.

Ultimately, the goal is to enjoy the game and the company of your fellow golfers. Whether you’re teeing it up with four, five, or even six players, a well-organized round of golf can be one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a day on the course. So gather your friends, plan your strategy, and make the most of your time on the links!

Calvin A. - Nashville