When you’re short a player, but still want a competitive format that keeps all eyes on the ball, Nines (also called the 5-3-1 or Nine Points Game) is one of the best options for three golfers. It’s a simple, engaging points game that rewards consistency and gives every hole meaning.
What Is Nines (5-3-1)?
In this format, each hole is worth nine points, distributed based on how each player scores. The breakdown is as follows:
- 5 points for the lowest score
- 3 points for second-lowest
- 1 point for the highest score
That adds up neatly to nine points per hole.
How to Handle Ties
Tie situations are handled with clear rules to ensure each hole still sums to nine points:
- If two players tie for lowest: each gets 4 points, and the third player gets 1 point.
- If three-way tie: each earns 3 points.
- If one player beats the rest by two or more strokes, they score all nine points.
These tie-break guidelines ensure fairness and keep the game dynamic—even when players are clustered closely together in skill.
Why Nines Works Terrific for Three Players
Nines keeps all players invested throughout the entire round. Every hole offers a fresh chance to gain ground, and the clear point structure means a bad hole doesn’t derail the whole game. Skilled players can dominate, but which player sneaks in consistent second-place finishes can just as easily win overall.
Handicaps can be applied to net scores, ensuring leveling of the playing field when skill levels vary.
Simple Setup and Scoring
- Agree Before Tee-Off: Set point value (e.g., $1 = 1 point), establish if playing gross or net (with handicaps), and confirm tie rules.
- Mark Scores Normally: Record each hole’s gross or net scores, then assign 5-3-1 accordingly, using tie-break rules as needed.
- Track Cumulatively: Keep a side tally to follow who’s leading in points after each hole.
- Settle the Round: The player with the most total points wins. If betting, losers pay winners based on the point differential.
Sample Play Layout
| Hole | Player A | Player B | Player C | Points Awarded (A-B-C) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 5-3-1 |
| 2 | 5 | 5 | 7 | 4-4-1 (tie for low) |
| 3 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 9-0-0 (beat by 2+) |
Calculations repeat by hole. Tally totals, and that total determines who wins the game with plenty of momentum swings included along the way.
Tips for Smooth Game Flow
- Stick to order of play. When someone earns all nine points, respect who plays next.
- Use a simple score format (e.g., small supplemental column on the scorecard for hole-by-hole points).
- Keep the vibe light. Nines is about competition and fun, not just high scores.
In Summary
The Nines / 5-3-1 side game brings structure, excitement, and equity to groups of three players. Every hole matters, comebacks are always possible, and the game’s simplicity makes it ideal for casual or competitive rounds alike. It works great with or without handicaps and can even be expanded with bonus point twists if your group wants extra creativity.