Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
The starting hole is the hole on which a player or side begins a round or match. Under the Rules of Golf, play of a hole starts with a stroke, normally made from that hole's teeing area; the starting hole is set by the Committee or competition arrangements.
How it matters in match play
In match play, the starting hole is the first hole on which the opponents begin their match. Rule 6.4a says the honour at the first hole comes from the Committee's draw or, if there is no draw, agreement or a random method such as a coin toss. After that, the winner of a hole has the honour at the next teeing area.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Starting Hole |
| Category | general |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf 6.1a-6.1b and 6.4a(1) |
| Related concepts | Teeing Area, Order of Play, Match Play, Tee Time |
Worked example
In an illustrative 18-hole match, Alex and Ben are assigned the 1st hole as their starting hole; after Alex wins it, Alex has the honour at the 2nd teeing area.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf 6.1a-6.1b and 6.4a(1)
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
Is Starting Hole an official defined term in the Rules of Golf?
No. It is ordinary competition and scoring language, not a defined term listed in the Rules of Golf. The relevant rules describe starting a hole and the teeing area, while the Committee or competition arrangements determine where a round or match begins.
How is the first player chosen on the starting hole in match play?
At the first hole, the honour is decided by the Committee's draw. If there is no draw, the players may agree or use a random method such as tossing a coin, as provided by Rule 6.4a(1).
Must a player stand inside the starting hole's teeing area?
No. The ball must be played from inside the teeing area, but the player may stand outside it while making the stroke. The teeing area is defined by the relevant tee-markers and is two club-lengths deep under Rule 6.2b.
What happens in match play if a player starts from outside the teeing area?
There is no automatic penalty, but the opponent may promptly cancel the stroke before either player makes another stroke. If cancelled, the player must play again from inside the teeing area; if not cancelled, the stroke counts and the ball is played as it lies.
Does the starting hole decide who has the honour on every later hole?
No. In match play, the player who wins a hole has the honour at the next teeing area. If the hole is tied, the player who had the honour at the previous teeing area keeps it.
Can a competition start on a hole other than the 1st?
A competition's Committee can set its arrangements, including the starting points and tee times. This glossary record does not infer a universal convention for a particular event; check that competition's Terms of the Competition.