Meta TitleWhat is a Shamble in Golf? Rules, Scoring, and Strategy
Meta DescriptionLearn how a shamble works—rules, scoring formats, and how it compares to scrambles and best ball. (93 characters)
IntroA shamble sits right between a scramble and best ball—team tee shots, then everyone plays their own ball. Here's how it works and why it's becoming a go-to tournament format.
What is a Shamble?
A shamble is a team format where all players tee off, the team picks the best drive, and then each player plays their own ball from that spot into the hole.
The key difference from a scramble: after the tee shot, you're on your own.
Basic Shamble Rules
- All players hit their tee shot
- Team selects the best drive
- Each player places their ball at that spot (usually within one club length)
- Everyone plays their own ball until holed
- Team records the best 1, 2, or 3 scores depending on format
Team sizes: Most common with 4-person teams, but 2- and 3-person shambles work too.
Shamble Scoring Formats
One Best Ball (1BB): Only the lowest score counts per hole. Most forgiving—great for mixed-skill groups.
Two Best Balls (2BB): The two lowest scores count. Standard for 4-person teams.
Three Best Balls (3BB): Three scores count. More challenging and rewards consistency.
Shamble vs. Scramble vs. Best Ball
Scramble: All players hit from the same spot on every shot.
Shamble: Shared tee shot, then everyone plays their own ball.
Best Ball: Everyone plays their own ball from tee to green.
A shamble is the middle ground—more individual accountability than a scramble, more teamwork than best ball.
Handicaps in a Shamble
Most shamble tournaments use a percentage of handicaps. Common approaches:
- 20–35% of combined team handicap
- 50% of each player's individual handicap
Clarify the rules before your event—handicap allocation can significantly impact competition.
Shamble Strategy
Off the tee: At least one player should hit a safe, fairway-finding shot. Longer hitters can take more aggressive lines knowing there's a backup.
After the drive: Know your role. If a teammate is already in good position, you can take more risk. If not, play smart.
Par 5s: Use that optimal tee shot position to attack the green. These are your birdie holes.
Communicate: Discuss strategy before each hole. Share club selections and reads.
Common Shamble Variations
Par 3 Shamble: Par 3s play as full scrambles (all players hit from best spot throughout).
Rotating Shamble: Best drive selection rotates through team members so everyone's drive gets used.
Run Your Next Shamble with Kismet
Kismet handles registration, live scoring, and results—so you can focus on the event, not the logistics.
