Looking for a terrific three-player golf game that keeps every player engaged for all 18 holes? Meet Split Sixes. This popular on-course betting game, also sometimes called 'Sixes' or 'Hollywood', is a dynamic format that forces players to adapt their strategy from one hole to the next. This article breaks down exactly how to play, including the scoring rules, tactical tips, and common variations to spice up your next round with your friends.
Split Sixes is a golf game and betting format designed perfectly for a group of three. The 18-hole round is divided into three separate six-hole matches. In each of these mini-matches, a total of 6 points are awarded on every single hole. The players' scores on the hole determine how those 6 points are distributed.
The core concept is simple:
At the end of each six-hole segment, players tally their points. The player with the most points wins that match. Then, the scoreboard is wiped clean, and the next six-hole match begins. This keeps the game exciting because even if a player has a disastrous start, they have a fresh opportunity to win the next two matches. Typically, a dollar value is assigned to each point, or a set amount is paid by the two losers to the winner of each six-hole match.
The beauty and drama of Split Sixes come from its unique scoring system. While there are a few variations (which we'll cover later), the most common and balanced method is known as the "4-2-0" system. The fundamental rule is unwavering: 6 points are distributed amongst the three players on every hole.
Here’s how those points are awarded based on the net scores for one hole:
When each player shoots a different score, the distribution is simple and reflects the ranking.
Example: Player A makes a par 4, Player B makes a bogey 5, and Player C makes a double bogey 6. Player A gets 4 points, B gets 2 points, and C gets 0 points.
When two players tie for the lowest score, they share the points allocated for first and second place.
Example: Player A makes a par 4, Player B also makes a par 4, and Player C makes a bogey 5. Players A and B each get 3 points, and Player C gets 0.
When one player wins the hole outright and the other two players tie behind them, the winner gets the top prize, and the other two split the remaining points.
Example: Player A makes a birdie 3, while Players B and C both make par 4. Player A gets 4 points, and Players B and C each get 1 point.
This is the most straightforward scenario. If all three players make the same score on a hole, they split the points evenly.
Example: All three players make a par. Each player earns 2 points for the hole.
To see how it all comes together, let's walk through a hypothetical six-hole match with three golfers: Ann, Bob, and Carlos. The scores are net (with handicaps applied).
Hole 1 (Par 4): Ann makes 4, Bob makes 5, Carlos makes 6.
Hole 2 (Par 3): Ann makes 4, Bob makes 3, Carlos makes 3.
Hole 3 (Par 5): Ann makes 5, Bob makes 6, Carlos makes 5.
Hole 4 (Par 4): All three players make a 4.
Hole 5 (Par 4): Ann makes 3, Bob makes 4, Carlos makes 4.
Hole 6 (Par 5): Ann makes 6, Bob makes 5, Carlos makes 7.
For this first six-hole match, Ann is the winner. Now, the scores are reset to zero, and the second match begins on hole 7.
One of the best things about a game like Split Sixes is how easy it is to customize. You and your partners can agree on "house rules" before you tee off to add more excitement.
What happens in a three-way tie? The standard rules say everyone gets 2 points. A popular house rule is to introduce "carryovers." If the hole is tied by all three players, no points are awarded, and the 6 points from that hole carry over to the next one. The next hole is now worth 12 points! If that hole is also tied, it can carry over again, making a future hole worth 18 points. This can lead to massive swings and keep everyone on their toes.
You can layer on individual side bets, often called Junk, Dots, or Trash. These are bonus points awarded for specific achievements, completely separate from the 6-point pot on each hole. Common junk bets include:
These points are tallied up separately at the end of the round for an additional payout.
Split Sixes isn't just about playing good golf, it's about playing smart golf. Your objective changes depending on what your opponents are doing. Here are some tactical tips to keep in mind.
After your tee shots, you often have a good sense of the hole's potential outcome. If one opponent is already in serious trouble (out of bounds, in the water), your primary goal may shift from winning the hole outright to simply beating the remaining player. Securing 3 points (by tying for first) or 2 points (by taking clear second) is far better than being too aggressive, making a mistake, and ending up with 0.
The zero-point hole is a killer in Split Sixes. If you hit a poor drive or find yourself in a bad spot, dial back the aggression. Don't try to be a hero. A conservative bogey that lands you 2 points (or even 1) is a minor victory compared to a risky recovery shot that leads to a double bogey and 0 points. Play for the "middle" - secure points, and let others make the big mistakes.
Conversely, if you smash a drive down the middle while your opponents are in trouble, it's time to be aggressive. That's your chance to capitalize and grab those 4 points. A well-played approach shot can apply immense pressure and often forces your opponents into further errors as they try to keep up.
The player dynamics shift on every hole. If you and another player both hit the fairway while the third finds the woods, you are temporary "partners" against that player. However, if one player is running away with the match, you and the other "losing" player might find a common enemy. Being aware of these constantly changing dynamics is part of the fun and sophistication of the game.
Split Sixes is an outstanding golf game for any threesome. It ensures that every shot on every hole matters, and its unique scoring system prevents any one player from getting so far ahead that the match becomes boring. By breaking the round into three distinct contests, it offers fresh hope and keeps the competitive energy high from the first tee to the 18th green.
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