Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
Hogan is a casual golf points or side-bet game that rewards accurate ball striking. Common versions award points for a fairway hit, a green in regulation and being closest to the hole after a green in regulation; other versions bundle those feats with a par.
How it matters in match play
Hogan is separate from the match result: players can track Hogan points while Alex and Ben settle each hole by the agreed match score. Before starting, the group should agree whether each achievement is a point, whether a qualifying par is required, and the dollar value, if any. A Hogan point does not automatically win a hole, alter a handicap, or change the match result. These are house arrangements rather than a single universal format.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Hogan |
| Category | betting |
| Applicable rule | No dedicated official rule established |
| Related concepts | Greens in Regulation, Par, Birdie, Closest-to-the-Pin Bet |
Worked example
Alex agrees that each Hogan is worth $2 and scores three qualifying Hogans; Ben scores one, so Alex receives $4 after the round, subject to the group’s agreed settlement rule.
Sources: www.golfcompendium.com , www.thefriedegg.com , www.myscorecard.com
Common questions
Is Hogan an official Rules of Golf competition format?
No single official Hogan format is established here. It is a casual side game, so the group should write down its qualifying shots, points and settlement before teeing off.
How do you score a Hogan?
A common version awards one point for a fairway hit, one for a green in regulation and one for being closest to the hole after a green in regulation. Another published version treats the combined fairway, green and par achievement as one Hogan. Agree the version first.
Does a Hogan point count as winning a match-play hole?
No. Hogan points are a separate side bet. The match remains settled by the agreed hole score, while the Hogan tally is settled independently at the end or at another agreed time.