The Two Basic Forms Of Golf

Prior to learning how to play golf myself, I always assumed that there was only one form of golf to play.  What we see on the televised professional golf tournaments fosters that opinion amongst those who have yet to learn and enjoy the game of golf.

There are two basic forms of golf than can be played by up to four golfers, either as individuals or as a group that forms a team.

Stroke play – the number of strokes per hole is added to produce a total score and the player with the lowest score wins. Stroke play is the game most commonly played by professional golfers.

If there’s a tie after the predetermined number of holes, a playoff takes place between the tied golfers.  These “playoffs” can be sudden death or a pre-determined number of holes (3 to the full 18 holes).  If the golfers remain tied after the pre-determined number of holes played, the first player to win a hole wins the game or tournament.

Match Play – two players (or two teams) play as a separate contest against each other.  In case one player takes a lead that can’t be overcome in the number of holes remaining to be played, the game is won by the player (team).  But, I’ve never witnessed a foursome or player not play the remaining holes just for the sheer pleasure.