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Guidelines for Stableford Scoring System
What is Stableford?
Dr. Frank Stableford's system of scoring was first used in Wallasay, near Liverpool. Points are awarded for performance against par, with allowance for handicaps. This then offers a competitive match between an expert and a high-
Scoring
On the scorecard the stroke/stableford index is shown against each hole.
For example:
If your handicap is 12 you would receive 1 handicap stroke for holes with the Index # 1,2,3 through to 12. On all other holes you receive no handicap stroke and play the hole from scratch.
If your handicap is 18 you would receive 1 handicap stroke for holes with the Index # 1,2,3 through to 18 i.e. 1 stroke on every hole.
If your handicap is 29 you would receive 2 handicap strokes for holes with the Index # 1,2,3 through to 11 (29-
If your handicap is 38 you would receive 3 handicap strokes for holes with the Index # 1 and 2 only (38-
To calculate your Nett stroke score for a hole you subtract the number of handicap strokes received from the actual strokes played for the hole. Stableford Points are then awarded according to your Nett score as follows:
If your Nett score (actual strokes taken minus handicap) is:
2 or more above par then you cannot score and you should just pick up your ball and move on
1 over par then you score 1 point for the hole
Equal to Par then you score 2 points for the hole
1 under Par (Birdie) then you score 3 points for the hole
2 under Par (Eagle) then you score 4 points for the hole
3 under Par (Albatross) then you score 5 point for the hole
Marking the Scorecard
Golf is a self-
In summary to score & mark a scorecard for a Stableford competition:-
Work out the handicap strokes received for each hole (make a mental note or on the scorecard)
Play the hole & record the actual strokes taken on the scorecard
Work out your Nett Score (strokes taken less handicap strokes received), and record it on the card if helpful
Work out Stableford points awarded based on your Nett Score against Par (refer to Points table above)
Record on the card your actual strokes taken (essential) and the stableford points awarded (non-
Total up the stableford points scored for the 18 holes
Record NETT (= Total Points Awarded) under RESULT
Ensure your card has your name, handicap, date, and is signed by yourself and your marker.