Golf Tournament Contests & Games: Tips & Tricks

Golf tournaments are more than just a test of skill; they’re a celebration of the sport that brings together players for friendly competition and camaraderie. One way to enhance the fun and engagement of these events is by incorporating on-course games and contests. These games not only add excitement but can also boost revenue and create a memorable experience that will keep players coming back year after year. Here’s some tips and tricks for how to add some some contests and games to your event and maximize the value.

What is a Golf Tournament Game?

On-course golf tournament games are activities or contests that take place during the actual round of golf. Unlike off-course activities or challenges that happen before or after the round, on-course games are integrated into the flow of play. They can range from straightforward challenges to creative contests designed to engage players and spectators alike.

Fun Ideas for On-Course Golf Tournament Games

1. Skill prizes: award prizes to players that win specific contests which take place on certain holes. Popular skill prize contests include:
• Closest to the Pin – set up a tape measure and name sheet on one or more par 3’s and award a prize to the player who gets the closest to the pin on the tee shot.
• Longest Drive – set up a stake and name sheet in the fairway of a long par 4 or par 5 and award a prize to the player with the longest drive the remains in the fairway.
• Longest Putt – set up a tape measure and name sheet on a green and award a prize to the player who makes the longest putt.
2. Hole-in-One Contests: a classic challenge where a prize is awarded for making a hole-in-one on a specific hole. Often, these contests involve a significant prize, such as a car or large cash amount which adds to the excitement. Hole in one insurance can be purchased for a small fee.
3. Skins Game: award a prize for the team who scores the lowest on each hole. If there are ties for the best score, no skin is awarded. Typically, only a few skins will be won and the prize money is split amongst them.
4. Beat the Pro: Players pay an entry fee to compete against a golf pro. If a player scores better than the pro on a particular hole, they win a prize.
5. Putting Contest: This game can be set up on the practice green or a designated area where players attempt putts of varying difficulty.
6. Fun Hole Formats: make certain holes a fun challenge such as only being able to use one club or having to tee off with a random club. Fore! Cards has several options available!
7. Wheel of Fortune: have a spin wheel with each space representing an action that can help them on the hole. Teams can pay to spin the wheel for an additional revenue opportunity.

How to Boost Revenue with On-Course Games

1. Entry Fees: Charge players an additional fee to participate in specific games. These can be collected during registration or at the event check in.
2. Sponsorships: Partner with local businesses to sponsor individual games or contests. Sponsors can provide prizes or financial support in exchange for visibility.
3. Raffles and Auctions: Incorporate raffles or silent auctions with items like golf equipment, apparel, or experiences. These can be tied into the on-course games, such as a raffle ticket for participating in a closest-to-the-pin contest.
4. Prize Packages: Create tiered prize packages for different levels of participation or achievement, which can incentivize players to participate in more games.

What Are the Benefits of Golf Tournament Games?

1. Increased Engagement: On-course games keep players engaged and excited throughout the round. They add variety and can break up the monotony of a standard tournament. This can also help entice sponsors as it gives them an opportunity for additional interaction with the participants.
2. Enhanced Atmosphere: Games create a festive atmosphere and foster a sense of camaraderie among players. They provide opportunities for social interaction and can make the event more memorable.
3. Revenue Generation: As discussed, on-course games can boost revenue through entry fees, sponsorships, and other financial opportunities.
4. Inclusivity: Games can be designed to cater to players of all skill levels, ensuring that everyone has a chance to win a prize or achieve recognition.
5. Promotion: Successful on-course games can enhance the reputation of your tournament, making it more attractive to future participants and sponsors.

How to Maximize Golf Tournament Games

1. Plan Ahead: Carefully plan and communicate the details of each game in advance. Ensure that all players understand the rules and entry requirements.
2. Promote Early: Use social media, email newsletters, and your tournament website to promote the games and contests. Highlight the potential prizes and benefits to encourage participation.
3. Engage Volunteers: Recruit volunteers to help manage and oversee the games. They can assist with setup, rule enforcement, and prize distribution.
4. Leverage Social Media: on-course games can make for some great social media content. Encourage participants to capture video or pictures of them participating in the games. Use a specific hashtag that they can use to promote the event. Take it even further by hiring a videographer or having volunteers capture content throughout the event.
5. Track Performance: Keep track of player participation and performance in the games to analyze what works well and what could be improved for future events.
6. Gather Feedback: After the tournament, gather feedback from participants to understand their experience and preferences. This will help you refine and enhance the games for future events.

Incorporating on-course games into your golf tournament can significantly elevate the experience for participants and spectators alike. By offering a variety of contests, boosting revenue through creative strategies, and maximizing engagement, you can create an unforgettable event that keeps players coming back year after year. So, get creative, plan meticulously, and prepare for a tournament that’s as enjoyable as it is competitive!

Check out Fore! Cards selection of on-course golf tournaments games and contest that can be easily integrated into your next event!