Tournament Rules

The fine print. Read it or don't. We'll still enforce it.

Tournament Format

The Gwen Abbey Invitational is an 18-hole stroke play event. Every stroke counts. Yes, even that one you "didn't count" because you weren't ready.

  • Individual stroke play, gross score
  • Full 18 holes, no exceptions
  • Play the ball as it lies (within reason)
  • Maximum score of triple bogey per hole to keep pace of play

Handicap Policy

Handicaps are self-reported and will be met with the appropriate level of skepticism.

  • All players must declare their handicap before the tournament
  • Net scores will be used alongside gross scores for specific awards
  • If your handicap seems suspicious, the field reserves the right to conduct a formal investigation (trash talk)
  • Sandbagging will be met with public shame

House Rules

  • Breakfast Ball: One free re-tee on Hole 1 only. Use it wisely or not at all.
  • Lost Ball / OB: Drop in the area with a one-stroke penalty. We're not spending 10 minutes searching for your Top Flite.
  • Gimme Putts: Inside the leather only, and your playing partners must agree. No one is gimme-ing a 4-footer for birdie.
  • Pace of Play: Keep it moving. Maximum 4.5 hours. If you're taking 3 practice swings on every shot, we're leaving you behind.
  • Provisional Balls: Encouraged. We'd rather you hit a provisional than hold up the course.
  • Cart Paths: Follow course rules. Getting your cart stuck is a 2-stroke penalty (social, not official).

Tiebreaker Procedures

In the event of a tie for the championship:

  1. Scorecard playoff: Compare back 9 scores
  2. If still tied: Compare back 6, back 3, then final hole
  3. If STILL tied: Sudden death chip-off from 30 yards. Winner takes all.

Contest Holes

Special competitions throughout the round:

  • Longest Drive: Designated par 4 or par 5. Must be in the fairway to count.
  • Closest to the Pin: Designated par 3. First shot only.
  • Longest Putt: Designated hole on the back 9.

Contest holes will be announced on tournament day.

Code of Conduct

The Gwen Abbey Invitational is built on sportsmanship, respect, and relentless trash talk. The following standards apply:

  • Repair your divots and ball marks. We may be amateurs but we're not animals.
  • Trash talk is encouraged but must be creative. "You suck" doesn't count.
  • No coaching or swing tips unless explicitly requested. Even then, think twice.
  • The beverage cart is not optional.
  • All disputes will be settled by group vote. The commissioner's ruling is final.
  • Most importantly: have fun. It's golf with your friends. Act accordingly.