In this format, each player plays their own ball for the entire round, just like a normal round of golf. Instead of counting total strokes, your performance on each hole is converted into Stableford points based on your net score (after handicap).
On every hole, both players earn points individually, and those points are then combined together to form the team score for that hole. For example, if Player A makes a net birdie (3 points) and Player B makes a net par (2 points), the team earns 5 total points for that hole. At the end of the round, all points are added up, and the team with the highest total points wins.
The Stableford system rewards better scores more aggressively while limiting damage from bad holes. A typical point structure is:
Double bogey or worse = 0 points
Bogey = 1 point
Par = 2 points
Birdie = 3 points
Eagle = 4 points
Albatross = 5 points
Handicaps are applied using 100% of each player’s GHIN handicap, and Golf Genius will automatically calculate each player’s net score and corresponding points on every hole. Handicap adjustments may also be applied based on the tee box being played (slope and rating).
This format encourages a more aggressive style of play because bad holes won’t ruin your round, but birdies and eagles are heavily rewarded. Even if one player struggles on a hole, the other player can still contribute points to the team, keeping every hole competitive.
Overall, it’s a strong mix of individual performance and team scoring, making it fair, fast-paced, and a lot more fun than traditional stroke play.