Shotgun Start (and Tee Times)
Also known as: shotgun start, what is a shotgun start, shotgun start golf, tee time, what is a tee time, two-tee start, starting on a different hole
A shotgun start means every group starts at the same time, each on a different hole. A group that starts on the 5th plays to the 18th, then plays holes 1 to 4. A tee time is the more usual system, where groups start one after another from the 1st or 10th tee at set times.
Shotgun starts are common in charity events, club scrambles and outings. Everyone finishes at about the same time, which makes a prize-giving or meal easy. Your starting hole is listed on the pairing sheet or cart.
Arrive early. You will need time to find your cart, warm up and get to your hole before the start signal. The name comes from the old practice of firing a shotgun to start play. Today it is usually a horn or an announcement.
With tee times, each group has its own start time. Arrive with enough time to check in, warm up and be on the tee a few minutes early.
Tips by skill level
For a shotgun start, arrive at least as early as for a tee time. Ask which hole you start on.
Write your starting hole on the card. Record scores in the right boxes even though you start mid-card.
Example
At a charity scramble, a group is told to start on the 12th. They drive there, wait for the horn and play 12 to 18, then 1 to 11.
Why it matters
Knowing how the start works helps you arrive ready. It also avoids missing your hole in a group event.
Common mistakes
- Arriving at start time with no time to reach your hole
- Playing the wrong starting hole
- Forgetting to keep score in hole order on the card
Frequently asked questions
How does a shotgun start work?
All groups begin at the same moment on different holes. Each group then plays the full round in order from its starting hole.
How early should I arrive for a tee time?
Early enough to check in, warm up and be on the tee a few minutes before your time. Allow extra time at a busy or unfamiliar course.
Related terms
- Best Ball vs Scramble FormatIn best ball, each teammate plays their own ball through the hole, and the team counts the lowest individual score. In a scramble, everyone tees off, the team picks the best shot, and all players hit their next shot from that spot.
- Shamble and Chapman (Pinehurst) FormatsA shamble is a team format where everyone tees off. The team picks the best drive, and then each player plays their own ball into the hole from that spot. Chapman, also called Pinehurst, is a pairs format where both partners tee off, swap balls for the second shot, choose one ball, and then alternate shots.
- Pre-Round WarmupA pre-round warmup prepares the body and calibrates feel, building from mobility to full swings, chipping, and putting. It is not for swing changes.
- Preparing for Your First Golf TournamentPrepare for your first tournament by learning the format, reading the local rules and playing a practice round if you can. On the day, arrive early, warm up and stick to your normal routine. Keep score carefully and ask the committee when unsure of a rule.
Related guides & benchmarks
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