Team & Partner Formats · Outing & Tournament Formats

Greensomes (Scotch Foursomes)

Also called Modified Alternate Shot, Selected Drive Foursomes, Scotch Foursomes (Selected Drive), Selective Drive Alternate Shot, Scotch Doubles, Modified Pinehurst

Both partners tee off, choose one ball, then alternate shots to the hole.

Players: 4+ players, best with 4
Play as: Partners (2 v 2)
Scorekeeping: Medium
Handicaps: Handicaps recommended
Money: Money optional
Type: Team & Partner Formats

How to play

Each partner hits a tee shot. The pair chooses the better drive, and the partner who did not hit it plays the second shot. Partners then alternate strokes with that one ball until it is holed. Can be played as match play or stroke play (including Stableford).

Scoring

WHS handicap: 60% of the lower course handicap + 40% of the higher, e.g. a 5 and a 15 = (5x0.6)+(15x0.4) = 9; if equal, simply halve. In match play the difference between the two sides' greensomes handicaps is given as strokes. It differs from foursomes only in the selected tee shot.

Variations

Bloodsomes/Gruesomes (opponents pick your drive)
Chapman/American Foursomes (swap balls for shot two)
Patsome (six holes each of four-ball, greensomes, foursomes)
Greensomes Stableford
Greensomes (identical rules under the UK name)
Chapman (swap balls for the second shot)
Scotch Wolf (Wolf with alternate shot)

Tips

Pick the drive that leaves the better player the approach, not just the longer ball
Agree how to handle a lost or OB drive: the other drive is automatically played
Let the shorter but straighter partner drive first on tight holes so the bomber can free-swing
Remember the second shot goes to the player whose drive was rejected

A friendlier alternate shot that UK clubs use for mixed and open days.