What is a shotgun start in golf?

In golf, a “shotgun start” is a format in which all players in a tournament start their rounds at the same time, but from different holes on the course. This is in contrast to the traditional tee-time start, in which players start their rounds at specific times from the first tee.

During a shotgun start, each group of players is assigned to a specific hole on the course. All groups will start their round simultaneously, with one group starting from each hole. The term “shotgun” comes from the sound of a shotgun being fired to signal the start of play.

Shotgun starts are commonly used in larger tournaments with a high number of participants. This format allows the tournament to be completed more efficiently and helps to avoid any potential delays. It can also make it easier for spectators and broadcasters to follow the action, as all the players are starting at the same time.

Generally, A foursome consists of four players. Each hole is designated as either a par three or par 5. Groups would start from holes 1, 2, etc. Every group begins playing at the same time. It allows a tournament to end while it takes the slowest foursome to finish a full round or 18 holes of golf. Some courses require that golfers play as a two-person team on the four and 5-par holes, but if there are more than 18 teams, some doubles play those holes as a two-man A and B team.

The idea of this format is that everyone plays the same number of holes, generally of a similar length. For example, if golfers are playing 18 holes, they have to play the 18 golf holes. If they are playing a 36-hole event, then the 36 holes are played.

It is worth noting that the order of play within each group is determined by the tournament organizers and may follow a predetermined rotation of players, or may be determined by random draw or other factors. Additionally, the specific rules and guidelines for a shotgun start can vary depending on the tournament or golf course.

Advantages

The advantage of the shotgun start format is that it’s easy to read the whole story at once, and everyone can see what happened.
It can be helpful if you’re on the winning side, and the winning team has a prize giving or meal after the match.
It used to get a large field in a tournament round the course. It is a great gear to have in the fall and winter months.
It’s popular among fundraising tournaments, association playdays, corporate outings, and the like because of the time management benefits.
As all golfers finish simultaneously, getting everyone in for a post-round celebration or awards ceremony is easier.

Disadvantages

A shotgun tournament limits the number of people in the match and reduces the income not just from green fees but also from driving range, beverage and food sales, pro shop, and even instructor time.
Compared to a standard round of golf, the price is higher.
The slower the group on the course, the slower the time frame
Because of slow play, non-tournament players might have to wait for their tee time to arrive finally.
Some golfers must go out of town on vacation because the tournament goes on when they usually tee it up.

Regulations and Restrictions

There must be a minimum number of golfers playing at any one time. If this requirement doesn’t meet, the tournament may be split into two tees, with players beginning from either tee.
There may be higher deposits for the event than for regular first tee times.
It may also be necessary to provide cancellation notices in advance.
These events are limited to being held only on weekdays and some days of the week.
Golf courses don’t usually offer this type of event on weekends. The quoted rates may be subject to a surcharge for golfers’ teams.
Most golf courses limit game starting times to 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. The host club typically holds an after-party at its clubhouse at the end of the event.
From the club pro shop, prizes may need to be purchased at a minimum.
Weather insurance will be required to participate in the tournament.
The host organization may prohibit golf coaches at their events, even if the golf course requires mandatory carts for all participants.
Golf clubs may require membership approval before holding these tournaments.

Who invented the golf shotgun start?

The origin of the golf shotgun start is not entirely clear, as it is believed to have been used in various forms in different golf tournaments over the years. However, there are a few different stories about who may have invented the format.

One popular theory is that the shotgun start was first used in the late 1950s or early 1960s by an executive at a golf club in Chicago named Ray Gallagher. According to this theory, Gallagher came up with the idea as a way to speed up play and make tournaments more efficient.

Another theory is that the shotgun start was first used in the early 1960s at a golf club in California called Tamarisk Country Club. According to this theory, the club’s golf pro, Johnny Dawson, came up with the idea as a way to accommodate a large number of players in a charity golf tournament.

Regardless of who first came up with the idea, the shotgun start has become a popular format for golf tournaments around the world. It allows for a more efficient and organized tournament and can make it easier for spectators and broadcasters to follow the action.

According to Golf Digest’s December 2004 issue, the first shotgun blast at the golf tee shot was fired by an old-school pro named Jim Russell at the inaugural Golf National Invitational in Washington state in 1956.

When Jim Russell fired a shotgun to sound the start of play at a tournament in May of 1956, he was playing golf at Walla Walla (Wash.) Country Club.

Related: Who Was Invented Golf?

Types of formats of shotgun start in the golf tournament

There are several types or formats of shotgun starts that can be used in a golf tournament. Here are a few examples:

Traditional Shotgun Start: In this format, all players in the tournament start their rounds at the same time, but from different holes on the course. Each group is assigned to a specific hole and starts its round simultaneously.
Modified Shotgun Start: This format is similar to the traditional shotgun start, but with a few modifications. For example, some groups may start from the same hole if there are not enough holes on the course to accommodate all the groups.
Reverse Shotgun Start: In a reverse shotgun start, the order of play is reversed from the traditional format. The last group to tee off on the first hole will be the first group to tee off on the second hole, and so on.
Two-tee Start: In a two-tee start, half of the players start on the first hole, while the other half start on the 10th hole. This allows the tournament to be completed more efficiently and can help to avoid any potential delays.
Rolling Shotgun Start: In a rolling shotgun start, groups of players start their rounds at predetermined intervals, rather than all at the same time. For example, groups may start every 10 minutes, with each group starting from a different hole on the course.

It’s worth noting that the specific format used in a shotgun start can vary depending on the tournament or golf course. Tournament organizers will typically communicate the format to players in advance, along with any other rules or guidelines for the shotgun start.

Shotgun Start Golf Rules

There are no specific rules that apply solely to shotgun starts in golf, as the basic rules of golf apply regardless of the format of play. However, there are some general guidelines and considerations to keep in mind when playing in a shotgun start tournament:

Teeing off: In a shotgun start, each group will start their round from a different hole on the course. Make sure to check the scorecard or ask the tournament organizers which hole you will be starting on.
Order of play: The order of play within each group will be determined by the tournament organizers. Follow their instructions carefully to ensure that the round runs smoothly and efficiently.
The pace of play: Shotgun starts can help to speed up play, but it’s still important to maintain a good pace of play. Keep up with the group in front of you, and be ready to hit your shot when it’s your turn.
Safety: Always be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution when hitting your shot or driving the golf cart. Follow any safety guidelines set forth by the golf course or tournament organizers.
Etiquette: As with any round of golf, it’s important to show good sportsmanship and respect for your fellow competitors. Follow proper golf etiquette, such as repairing divots and ball marks, and observing the rules of golf.

Overall, the key to a successful shotgun start is communication and cooperation. Make sure to stay informed and follow the instructions of the tournament organizers, and be respectful and courteous to your fellow players.

How does golf shotgun start work in golf?

In a golf shotgun start, all the players in a tournament begin their rounds at the same time from different holes on the golf course. Here’s how it typically works:

Before the tournament, the golf course is divided into several starting holes, typically 18 or 9 holes.

The golfers are divided into groups, and each group is assigned to start on a different hole. For example, one group might start on hole 1, another group might start on hole 2, and so on.

All the golfers gather in a central location, typically near the clubhouse or the first tee, where they receive instructions from the tournament organizers and any necessary information about the course and rules.

When it’s time to start the tournament, a signal is given, typically a horn or a siren, to indicate that all the players should begin their rounds.

Each group of golfers proceeds to their assigned starting hole, where they tee off and begin their round. Because each group is starting on a different hole, the players are spread out across the course and can play at their own pace without getting too bunched up.

As the golfers complete their rounds, they return to the clubhouse or another designated area to turn in their scorecards and await the results of the tournament.

In specific tournaments, there are scorecards with each player’s name already printed, and that order is used for teeing off on the first assigned hole. Next, it’s a birdie (low score) as an in-match play on future holes.

When the final group hits the first tee, each cart will be within striking distance of its assigned tee. They will have to start practicing your golf swing soon because you’ll be teeing off when the shotgun fires away in just a few minutes.

Overall, a golf shotgun start is a convenient way to start a tournament with a large number of players, as it allows everyone to begin their rounds at the same time and ensures that the tournament can proceed efficiently and fairly.

What is a double shotgun start in golf?

A double shotgun start is a golf tournament format that is similar to a traditional shotgun start, but it involves two different starting times for players.

In a double shotgun start, half of the players start their round on one side of the course (e.g., the front nine), while the other half of the players start their round on the other side of the course (e.g., the back nine). The two groups of players will then play their rounds in opposite directions, meeting in the middle of the course.

After both groups complete their rounds, there is typically a break or lunch period, during which the players can rest and the tournament staff can organize the scores. Then, the two groups of players will switch sides, and the group that started on the front nine will play the back nine, while the group that started on the back nine will play the front nine.

Overall, a double shotgun start can be an effective way to accommodate a large number of players and ensure a smooth and efficient pace of play. It can also provide a unique and interesting format for players and spectators alike.

An alternate option would be to add two groups of four to each of the par five golf holes. In the case of a tournament that begins at noon, Group A will tee off at noon, followed by Group B once Group A has finished playing.

What is a reverse shotgun start in golf?

A reverse shotgun start in golf is a tournament format that is the opposite of a traditional shotgun start. In a reverse shotgun start, all players in the tournament start their rounds at the same time, but instead of starting from different holes, they all start from the same hole on the course.

The reverse shotgun start is often used in smaller tournaments or events, and it can help to avoid the congestion and delays that can occur with a traditional shotgun start. It also allows tournament organizers to ensure that all players finish at the same time, which can be helpful for scheduling and logistics.

In a reverse shotgun start, players will typically tee off in groups of three or four, and they will start their round from the same tee box on the course. Once they complete the hole, they will move on to the next hole in the traditional order (i.e., 1, 2, 3, etc.) and continue playing their round.

Overall, a reverse shotgun start can be an effective way to manage smaller tournaments and ensure a smooth and efficient pace of play for all players.

What is a modified shotgun start in golf?

A modified shotgun start in golf is a tournament format that combines elements of both a traditional shotgun start and a tee time starts.

In a modified shotgun start, players will be divided into groups and assigned starting holes in advance, similar to a tee time start. However, instead of having a set starting time, all groups will begin to play at the same time, as in a traditional shotgun start.

For example, if there are 20 groups of four players each, each group will be assigned a specific starting hole in advance. Then, all 80 players will start their rounds simultaneously, with each group beginning to play at their assigned hole.

The modified shotgun start can help to avoid some of the congestion and delays that can occur with a traditional shotgun start, while still allowing for a more efficient pace of play and a fun, social atmosphere. It also allows players to begin their rounds at a specific time, which can be helpful for scheduling and planning purposes.

Overall, a modified shotgun start can be a flexible and effective tournament format that combines the best elements of tee time starts and traditional shotgun starts.

What does a shotgun scramble mean?

A shotgun scramble is a golf tournament format that combines elements of both the shotgun start and scramble formats.

In a shotgun scramble, all players start their rounds at the same time from different holes on the course, as in a typical shotgun start tournament. However, once play begins, each group of players plays a scramble format, where each player hits a shot, and the team chooses the best shot to play from for the next shot.

The team then hits their second shot from the chosen spot, and the process continues until the ball is holed out. The team’s score for the hole is the number of strokes it took to complete the hole using the scramble format.

A shotgun scramble is often used in charity or fundraising golf tournaments because it can accommodate a large number of players and allows for a fun, social atmosphere. It also allows players of all skill levels to participate and contribute to the team’s success.

Overall, a shotgun scramble is a fun and social format that combines the excitement of a shotgun start with the strategy and teamwork of a scramble.

FAQs

Why do they call it a shotgun start in golf?

In golf, a “shotgun start” refers to a specific way of starting a golf tournament in which all the players begin their rounds at the same time, each starting from a different hole on the course. The term “shotgun start” comes from the idea that a shotgun blast could be used to signal the start of play, as the sound would carry across the entire course and be heard by all the players.

In the early days of golf tournaments, it was common for all players to start their rounds at the same time, teeing off from the first hole on the course. This could lead to delays and long waits for players, especially if there were a large number of participants.

To address this issue, some tournament organizers began experimenting with a new format where players would start their rounds from different holes on the course, all at the same time. To signal the start of play, a shotgun blast would be fired, with each group of players assigned to a different hole on the course.

Over time, this format became known as the shotgun start, and it is now a common way to start a golf tournament. While the use of a shotgun to signal the start of play is less common today, the term “shotgun start” has stuck and is still widely used to describe this format.

Originally, shotgun starts were used primarily for charity or corporate events, where a large number of golfers would be playing at the same time. By starting everyone at the same time, organizers could ensure that the tournament would finish in a reasonable amount of time and that all the golfers would be able to participate in the post-round festivities together. Today, shotgun starts are also used in some professional golf events, such as the Pebble Beach Pro-Am, where they are often used to accommodate a large number of amateur players who are competing alongside the pros.

Does PGA use a shotgun start?

Yes, the PGA (Professional Golfers’ Association) Tour does use a shotgun start for some tournaments. A shotgun start is a format in which all the golfers in a tournament start at the same time but from different holes on the course. This format is used to save time and ensure that all the players finish at around the same time, which is important for broadcasting and logistical purposes.

The PGA Tour typically uses a traditional tee time start for the first two rounds of a tournament, in which golfers start at specific times from the first hole. However, for the third and fourth rounds, the tour may use a shotgun start. This is usually done for tournaments with larger fields, as it allows the event to be completed in a shorter period and helps to avoid any potential delays.

How many golfers can play with a shotgun start?

The number of golfers who can play in a shotgun start depends on the number of holes on the golf course and the tournament organizers’ preference.

In general, shotgun starts are most commonly used in larger tournaments with a high number of participants. For example, a tournament with 144 players may be split into 36 groups of four players each, with each group starting on a different hole on the course.

If there are fewer holes on the golf course than the number of players, multiple groups of golfers may be assigned to the same hole to begin their round. For example, if there are only 18 holes on the course, four groups of golfers could start simultaneously from each of the first four holes, with each group playing a different set of 18 holes on the course.

In summary, the number of golfers who can play with a shotgun start depends on the number of holes on the course and the tournament organizers’ preferences, but it is typically used for larger tournaments with a high number of participants.

What is the first rule of the shotgun in golf?

In the context of golf, the “first rule of the shotgun” is a lighthearted term used to designate the process of determining the order in which golfers will ride in a golf cart during a shotgun start tournament.

Typically, the first rule of shotgun involves calling out “shotgun!” to claim the front passenger seat of a car. In a golfing context, this tradition has been adapted to determine which golfer will ride in the driver’s seat of each golf cart.

To determine the order of golfers in a shotgun start, tournament organizers will often assign each group of golfers to a specific hole on the course and then use a random draw or a predetermined order to determine which golfer from each group will drive the cart. The golfers will then proceed to their assigned starting hole in their designated golf cart, with the driver responsible for operating the cart and navigating the course.

While the “first rule of the shotgun” is a lighthearted tradition in golf, it is important to remember that safety should always come first when operating a golf cart. Golfers should be aware of their surroundings, drive at a safe speed, and always follow the rules and guidelines set forth by the golf course.

What is A and B in golf shotgun start?

In golf, the terms “A” and “B” are often used in the context of shotgun starts to designate the order in which golfers will play.

In a shotgun start, golfers are typically divided into groups and assigned to specific holes on the course. Each group will then start their round at the same time, with one group starting from each hole on the course.

To designate the order of play within each group, tournament organizers will often assign golfers to either an “A” or “B” group. The “A” group will typically play first, hitting their shots from the tee box, fairway, or wherever their ball came to rest after their previous shot. Once all golfers in the “A” group have played, the “B” group will play their shots, following the same order.

The purpose of the “A” and “B” designations is to ensure that there is a consistent order of play throughout the tournament and to prevent any confusion or disputes between golfers.

It is important to note that the “A” and “B” designations can vary depending on the specific tournament or golf course. Golfers should always check with tournament organizers or the course staff to determine the order of play and any other rules or guidelines for the shotgun start.

What is the shotgun strategy in golf?

In golf, the shotgun strategy refers to a game plan or approach that is designed to take advantage of the unique format of a shotgun start tournament. Here are some key elements of the shotgun strategy:

Strong start: In a shotgun start tournament, all players start their rounds at the same time from different holes. This means that you can get off to a fast start and build momentum early in the round. The shotgun strategy often involves focusing on making birdies and taking advantage of the easier holes on the course.
Course management: With multiple groups of players starting at the same time, the course can become congested and slow-moving. The shotgun strategy involves planning your shots carefully and being aware of your surroundings to avoid any delays or distractions.
Flexibility: In a shotgun start tournament, you never know which hole you will start on, so it’s important to be prepared for any situation. The shotgun strategy involves being adaptable and ready to adjust your game plan on the fly.
Endurance: In a shotgun start tournament, you may be playing for several hours without a break. The shotgun strategy involves pacing yourself and conserving your energy so that you can maintain your focus and performance over the entire round.

Overall, the key to the shotgun strategy is to embrace the unique format of the tournament and use it to your advantage. By starting strong, managing the course effectively, staying flexible, and maintaining your endurance, you can give yourself the best chance of success in a shotgun start tournament.

What is the shotgun start golf podcast?

Several golf podcasts cover the topic of shotgun start tournaments in golf. Here are a few examples:

Shotgun Start: This is a popular golf podcast hosted by golf writers Andy Johnson and Brendan Porath. The podcast covers a wide range of golf-related topics, but it also frequently delves into the strategy and logistics of shotgun start tournaments.
The Fried Egg: This golf podcast is hosted by golf writer Andy Johnson (who also co-hosts the Shotgun Start podcast). The podcast covers a range of golf-related topics, but also frequently explores the history and strategy of golf tournaments, including shotgun start events.
Golf Digest: The Golf Digest podcast covers a range of golf-related topics, including tournament strategy and format. The podcast features interviews with golfers, coaches, and other experts in the sport, and often includes discussions about shotgun start tournaments.

These are just a few examples of golf podcasts that cover the topic of shotgun start tournaments. There are many other golf podcasts available that may also cover this topic.

Golf Shotgun Start – Medium.m4v

Conclusion

Globally, A shotgun start in golf has become a popular way to begin golf tournaments. Because each group starts at the same time, the awards ceremony, meal, and drinks can all be arranged simultaneously. In addition, the competition organizer can simultaneously review all scorecards, which makes their job easier.

Whether golfers can choose a shotgun start or decide to use tee times, it’ll be fun and exciting for all participants to watch because everyone brings their unique play style.

Finally, we can say that it is an excellent idea to start the tournament with a shotgun start where the tournament time is a concern.