Four-Ball (Best Ball)
Also called Four-Ball (Two-Man Best Ball), Better Ball, Fourball
Partners play their own balls; the lower score on each hole counts.
4+ players · best with 4Team & Partner FormatsPartners (2 v 2)Easy to score
How to play →Team & Partner Formats · Twists & Challenges
Long & Short
Also called Long and Short, Whack and Hack
One partner hits every long shot, the other every short shot.
- Players
- 4+ players
- Play as
- Partners (2 v 2)
- Scorekeeping
- Easy
- Handicaps
- Handicaps optional
- Money
- Money optional
- Type
- Team & Partner Formats
How to play
Two-person teams play one ball. The 'Long' partner hits all drives and approaches; the 'Short' partner plays everything inside an agreed distance, typically 150 yards, including pitches, chips and bunker shots. Because most strokes are short, partners usually alternate putts once on the green.
Scoring
One team score per hole; can be run as a casual game, a 2-v-2 bet or a tournament format. No standardized handicap allowance; groups often use the greensomes-style 60/40 or a simple average.
Variations
- Split at 100 or 125 yards instead of 150
- Short player putts everything
- Long player drives only, then alternate
Tips
- Pair a bomber with a wedge-and-putter wizard
- Great for teaching juniors or coaching a beginner from the green backwards
Lets specialists specialize and creates instant partner banter.
Works with
Each link opens every game that works for that number of players.
Related games
Scramble
Also called Captain's Choice, Fort Lauderdale, Four-Person Scramble
Everyone hits, team picks the best shot, everyone plays from there until holed.
2+ players · best with 4Team & Partner FormatsTeamsEasy to score
How to play →Sixes (Round Robin)
Also called 6-6-6, Hollywood, Triple Six
Change partners every six holes so everybody plays with everybody once.
4 players only · best with 4Team & Partner FormatsRotating partnersEasy to scoreMoney game
How to play →Chapman (Pinehurst)
Also called Chapman System, Pinehurst System, Pinehurst Foursomes
Both drive, swap balls for the second shot, pick one ball, then alternate.
4+ players · best with 4Team & Partner FormatsPartners (2 v 2)Medium to score
How to play →Sources
Rules reflect the version most groups play, cross-checked across these sources. House rules vary; agree yours on the first tee.
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