Nines (5-3-1)

Three players play their own ball, usually net. On every hole 9 points are split by score: 5 to the lowest, 3 to the next, 1 to the highest. Keep a running total; 162 points are available over 18 holes. Settle on point differentials at the end.

Ties: two tie for low = 4-4-1; two tie for high = 5-2-2; all three tie = 3-3-3. Each player pays the difference in points times the agreed unit to anyone above them. Optional bonuses: a birdie-or-better win pays 7-1-1, or a win by 2+ strokes blitzes all 9.

• Nassau style with front, back and 18 bets
• Last place pays both winner and runner-up (rare)
• Blitz and birdie-bonus rules above
• Blitz rule (9-0-0)
• Birdie takes all 9
• Trailing player sets point values for the last three holes
• Nassau-style front/back/18 reset

• Avoid the high score; the middle spot still pays 3
• Play net unless handicaps are close
• Keep a simple three-column tally
• Avoid the 1 as much as you chase the 5
• Use net scores for mixed handicaps