The annual Member/Guest tournaments at my club is the event I look forward to the most each year. My uncle plays as my partner and we have a great time. What makes an event like this great is that it is so much more than just golf; it is a dynamic social experience that includes competition, camaraderie and tradition. If you’ve never played in one before and have just been invited to your first, you might be wondering what to expect. To make sure you’re prepared and can enjoy every minute from the moment you arrive until you leave, check out the following tips.
Golf, Hospitality and FUN
Member/Guest golf events typically span two to three days. At our club, guests tend to arrive in the late afternoon on Friday. Everyone is invited out for a friendly 9 or 18 hole practice round where you’re randomly paired with other participants in the event. It is a great way to meet new people and find out where your game is at heading into flighted matches.
You can also expect to feel like a VIP the moment you set foot on property. Welcome gifts, cocktail hours and dinners, entertainment and mini-games are all part of the experience. Look at it like a mini-vacation with golf as the centerpiece. One of my favorite events at our member/guest is the putting competition at the end of day one before dinner. It is something I look forward to every year as much as the golf.
Formats and Flighting
Tournaments are usually flighted by combined handicap (so make sure you have and know yours), meaning you’ll be grouped with teams of similar skill levels. The format can vary, but a popular one is a round-robin or better-ball match play within your flight. You’ll play multiple 9-hole matches against other teams in your flight, accumulating points to qualify for a shootout or championship round.
This is the format my club uses, and it is a blast. Often times, advancing into the alternate shot shootout on Sunday is by a half a point or less. Every match counts, and it really makes for a fun two days of golf.
A Competitive Yet Friendly Atmosphere
Yes, people want to win—bragging rights and club prestige are on the line—but the vibe is generally lighthearted and social. Expect plenty of laughs, a bit of friendly trash talk, and maybe even some side bets. Just be sure to keep pace and know the rules of the format.
I’ve found with playing in my club’s event that if I take it too seriously, I have less fun and don’t enjoy it as much. Yes, we go out each year wanting to be the last team standing. But bad shots are bound to happen, and that’s what you have your partner for. Don’t let a bad hole ruin your weekend. Take it in stride and keep playing!
The Calcutta
Some clubs run a Calcutta—a lively and sometimes rowdy auction where teams are “bid on” and bought by other players (or themselves) based on how likely they are to win. It adds a layer of excitement (and pressure), especially if money is involved. If it’s your first time, just watch and soak it in—or bid low if you’re feeling brave.
But be warned, depending on the club you play at, you may hear some MAJOR money being thrown around. The pot will rise into the low to mid thousands at my club, however I’ve heard of places where it can reach north of $20,000. Bet with your head, not your heart!
Dress to Impress
While not a requirement at every club (like mine, for example), some events may have a dress code for both on and off the course. Traditional golf attire should get the job done while on the course, but pay close attention to any themes or requirements for clubhouse attire. Check with your member before arrival or look through the event itinerary to you’re ready to impress.
The Shootout
Win and you’re in. The format may vary but one thing is for sure. The final shootout is the highlight of the weekend for on-course action and is comprised of flight winners. It’s a sudden death final round and the last team standing is crowned the winner. Our Member/Guest uses alternate shot, so there’s added pressure for each swing. The eliminated teams typically stick around to watch, adding a gallery and some additional pressure. Be prepared to feel some jitters!
Closing Thoughts
There are a few final pieces to touch on as we wrap this up. First, be sure to bring your A game but remember that you are there to have fun and enjoy the overall experience. A member/guest outing is about so much more than golf; so take it all in and enjoy every aspect. Second, and arguably most important. Be a gracious guest. Remember that you are not only representing yourself (and possibly your home club), but the member as well. Your behavior and decisions reflect directly on them. And third – pace yourself. You’ll most likely be playing at least 45 holes of golf in two days not counting the shootout if you make it. Stay hydrated during your rounds and be smart at the social hour – competing hungover may be a tall task.
Enjoy every moment of this event!