What is a Golf Scramble?
A scramble (also called "Texas Scramble" or "Captain's Choice") is a team format where all players hit from the same spot. After each shot, the team picks the best one, and everyone plays from there. Repeat until the ball is holed.
The key concept: everyone always plays from the best previous shot.
Basic Scramble Rules
How it works:
- All players tee off
- Team selects the best shot
- Everyone hits their next shot from that spot (within one scorecard length, no closer to the hole)
- Repeat until the ball is holed
- Record one score for the team
Team sizes: 2-person and 4-person scrambles are most common. 3-person works too.
Drive minimums: Many scrambles require each player's drive to be used a set number of times (usually 3–4 per player over 18 holes). This keeps one long hitter from carrying the team.
Scramble Scoring and Handicaps
Most scrambles use net scoring (with handicaps) to level the playing field.
Common handicap formula:
- 25% of lowest handicap
- 20% of second-lowest
- 15% of third-lowest
- 10% of highest
Example: A team with handicaps of 5, 10, 15, and 20 would get about 8 strokes.
Some events simplify this to 20–25% of combined team handicap.
Scramble Strategy
Team composition matters. The best teams have a mix: a long driver, an accurate iron player, a solid putter, and someone steady all around.
Shot order matters too. General rule: best player hits last. They're your insurance.
- Off the tee: shortest hitter goes first to take the pressure off. Longest/most accurate goes last.
- Approach shots: safer player first to get one on the green. Best ball-striker last.
- Putting: worst putter reads the green first. Best putter closes it out.
Other tips:
- Par 5s are birdie opportunities—be aggressive when you have a backup
- On tough par 3s, get one safe, then attack the pin
- Stay positive. Bad shots don't count—that's the whole point.
Common Mistakes
- Always using the longest drive (position often matters more than distance)
- Not using required drives strategically
- Being too conservative when you have three backup shots
- Neglecting short game—scrambles are often won on the green
Scramble Variations
Florida Scramble: The player whose shot is selected sits out the next shot.
Bramble: Scramble off the tee, then everyone plays their own ball in.
String Scramble: Team gets a length of string to move the ball during the round.
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