String Game

Each player receives a length of string, normally one foot per handicap stroke (15-handicap = 15 feet) or a uniform length such as a yard with full handicaps. At any time a player may move the ball by hand in any direction without penalty, out of a hazard or the rough, onto the green, or into the hole, then measure and cut off the distance moved. Play until the string runs out. Lowest score wins.

Gross or partial-handicap stroke play; the string replaces or supplements strokes. Prize or pot to the low score.

• No use on the green (most common) vs string allowed for putts
• Three-quarter handicaps when string varies by player
• Uniform string for everyone
• No string on greens
• Earn string back for birdies
• Scramble teams sharing one string

• Save string for penalty situations, not short putts
• Cut precisely; disputes are common
• Agree green rules before starting
• Bring a tape measure to settle disputes
• Save string for the closing holes