A popular format for team play, particularly in amateur golf events, it combines elements of both a scramble and a better ball competition. Each player on a team tees off on each hole. Following the tee shots, the team selects the best drive. All team members then play their second shots from that location, and this process is repeated until the hole is completed. Only one score from the team is recorded for each hole. For example, a team of four might all tee off, select the best drive (Player A’s drive), and then all four players hit their second shots from where Player A’s drive landed. This continues until one player manages to hole out; that individual score is recorded as the team’s score for that hole.
This approach offers a blend of competitive and relaxed play. The element of selecting the best drive allows players of varying skill levels to contribute to the team’s success, reducing pressure on less consistent players while still enabling better players to showcase their abilities. Historically, formats like this have been employed to foster camaraderie and encourage participation in golf tournaments, particularly among players who may not otherwise be competitive in individual stroke play events. They also tend to speed up play compared to individual stroke play.