How do you play a scramble?
A team usually consists of two to four players. On every hole all players tee off. The team then chooses the best ball. Everyone places their ball at that spot and plays again. After that shot you again choose the best ball, and so on until the ball is holed. The team records one score per hole.
Example
Anna, Bas, Cor and Daan play together. Cor's drive is in the best position, so all four play their second shot from there. Daan's ball ends up closest to the flag, so all four putt from that spot. If Anna holes her putt, the hole is finished.
Texas scramble
In the Netherlands a Texas scramble is often played. In that variant a minimum number of drives must be used from each player, for example four per player in a team of four. This stops the team from relying only on its longest hitter. The exact rules are set in the terms of the competition.
Handicap in a scramble
Under the World Handicap System the recommended team handicap for a four-player scramble is 25%, 20%, 15% and 10% of the course handicaps, from lowest to highest. For a two-player scramble it is 35% of the lower and 15% of the higher course handicap. Scramble scores do not count towards your handicap.
Difference from greensome and foursomes
In a greensome you only choose the best ball after the tee shot and then alternate shots. In foursomes you alternate shots with one ball from the tee onwards. In a scramble you choose the best ball again after every shot, which usually leads to lower scores.
Why play a scramble?
Scramble is a popular format for company outings, club events and opening competitions. Everyone contributes, beginners feel less pressure and the pace is high.
