Stableford Golf

Invented By Welshman Frank Stableford, specifically to stop golfers from throwing their clubs in the lake after one or two bad shots, the Stableford golf format is the ultimate scoring system alternative. It’s a high-stakes points chase where "blow-up" holes won't ruin your day as Stableford golf rewards bold play and keeps the "group fun" alive.

What is Stableford in Golf?

Stableford Golf Format is a scoring system where points are awarded based on the number of strokes taken at each hole relative to par. Instead of counting total strokes, players earn points, such as 1 for bogey, 2 for par, 3 for birdie, 4 for eagle, 5 for albatross and the player with the most points wins. By minimizing the damage of a 'blow-up' hole, stableford golf rewards risk-taking and keeps the game moving faster than traditional stroke play.

  • Points-Based System

    Points-Based System

    Earn points on each hole depending on your score relative to par.

  • No Big Numbers

    No Big Numbers

    A bad hole only costs you zero points—not a high stroke count.

  • Most Points Wins

    Most Points Wins

    The player with the highest points total wins.

Key Highlights

  • Encourages aggressive, risk-reward golf.
  • One bad hole doesn’t ruin your score.
  • Speeds up play—you can pick up on a hopeless hole.
  • Popular for handicap competitions.

How to Play How to Play Stableford?

  • Play normal golf and count your strokes per hole.

  • Convert strokes to points using the Stableford scoring system.

  • Add your points as you play.

  • Highest points total wins.

  • Handicaps can be used to adjust scores for fairness, making scoring in golf Stableford widely adaptable.

Scoring System Stableford Scoring System

  • Double Bogey or Worse = 0

  • Bogey = 1 Point

  • Par = 2 Points

  • Birdie = 3 Points

  • Eagle = 4 Points

  • Albatross = 5 Points

  • Hole-in-One = 6 Points (Optional)

Scorecard Example

Example scorecard of stableford scoring system

Winner: Player C

Stableford Golf Variations Stableford Golf Variations

  • Modified Stableford

    Adjust point values (used on the PGA Tour occasionally) to reward risk more heavily.

  • Handicap Stableford

    Handicap strokes are factored into net scoring for points.

  • Team Stableford

    Played in pairs or groups—combine or average team points.

Why Play Stableford Why Play Stableford?

  • Keeps the Round Fun

    One bad hole won't ruin your day.

  • Promotes Aggressive Golf

    Going for birdies and eagles is rewarded.

  • Popular for Handicaps

    Ideal for leveling the field among different skill levels.