Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
A Start List is the competition notice showing who is playing, the group or match pairing, and each scheduled starting time and point. In golf it may also show the starting hole, round, course, division, or draw position.
How it matters in match play
In match play, the Start List tells Alex and Ben which opponent they face, when and where their match begins, and where the pairing sits in the draw. It is an administrative competition document, not a scoring method. For an event with later rounds, the committee may publish revised groupings and starting times as the draw advances.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Start List |
| Category | general |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf, Rule 5.3a; Committee Procedures, Section 5G |
| Related concepts | Tee Sheet, Tee Time, Pairing, Draw, Field |
Worked example
The Start List puts Alex and Ben in Match 8 at 8:20 am from the first tee, while Chris and Dana start Match 9 at 8:30 am from the first tee; these times and pairings are illustrative, not historical results.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf, Rule 5.3a; Committee Procedures, Section 5G
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.randa.org
Common questions
Is a Start List the same as a Tee Sheet?
They often overlap. A Tee Sheet usually focuses on times and groups, while a Start List may also include the field, round, starting hole, division, or match-play draw. The event committee decides the layout and terminology.
Does a Start List decide the match result?
No. It schedules the match or group. Match results are settled under the applicable format and recorded separately. A published time is important because Rule 5.3a treats a committee-set starting time as an exact time, subject to the Rule’s exceptions.
Can a Start List change after it is published?
Yes. A committee can publish updated groupings or starting times, particularly for later rounds or an advancing match-play draw. Players should check the latest official version and follow the competition’s Terms of the Competition.
Does every golf event use the words Start List?
No. Organisers may use names such as Tee Sheet, starting times, grouping sheet, or draw sheet. The practical purpose is similar: communicate the approved players, groups or matches, and starting arrangements.
Is a Start List a Rules of Golf format?
No. It is an event-management document. The Rules of Golf govern the competition and starting-time obligations, while the committee chooses how to display the schedule and any additional event information.
Where should players check a Start List?
Use the competition’s official noticeboard, website, email, or event system, and check at the course if the committee provides a posted copy. The R&A recommends that grouping sheets with starting times be available for players to reconfirm them.