Page type: Glossary / definition
Free tool: Open the calculator →
Meaning
Split Sixes is a three-player golf betting game with six points available on every hole. In the basic version, the lowest score receives four points, the middle score receives two, and the highest receives none, with agreed tie splits keeping six points in play.
How it matters in match play
Split Sixes is not match play: players normally compare their scores within the threesome on each hole and accumulate points, rather than winning, losing or halving holes against one opponent; any handicap or net-score adjustment is a separately agreed house rule.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Split Sixes |
| Category | betting |
| Applicable rule | No dedicated official rule established |
| Related concepts | Sixes, Stableford, Net Score, Handicap Competition, Hole Score |
Worked example
On one hole Alex scores 4, Ben 5 and Chris 6, so Alex receives 4 points, Ben 2 and Chris 0; at a house stake of $1 per point, that hole is worth $6 in total.
Sources: archive.golf.org.au , www.golfcompendium.com , www.randa.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
How many players are needed for Split Sixes?
It is designed for three players, with each player keeping an individual score and competing for the six points on every hole.
How are six points split in Split Sixes?
The usual split is 4 points for the lowest score, 2 for the middle score and 0 for the highest. Two players tied for the lowest score receive 3 each; a tie for second gives 1 each; three equal scores give 2 each.
Is Split Sixes an official Rules of Golf format?
No. It is a casual side game. The Rules of Golf describe recognised competition forms such as match play and stroke play, while the six-point allocation is a local game convention.
Can handicaps be used in Split Sixes?
Only if the group agrees how to apply them, such as comparing net scores. There is no universal Split Sixes handicap allowance, so do not automatically apply a WHS percentage intended for a different format.
What happens when scores are tied?
Use the agreed tie convention. The commonly published version gives 3 points each for a tie for lowest, 1 point each for a tie for second, and 2 points each when all three scores are equal.
Does Split Sixes require money to be wagered?
No. The points can simply be tracked. If money is involved, agree the value per point, tie treatment and settlement before teeing off.