Split tees are a type of tee arrangement in which groups of golfers start their rounds on two separate tees. When split tees are utilized, one group will start their round from the 1st tee and the other group will start from the 10th tee.
When are split tees used in tournaments
Split tees are most commonly used in professional golf tournaments. This is because they allow for a more even distribution of players across the different tee boxes. This can help to reduce congestion on the course and make it fairer for all players involved.
In professional tournaments with a field of more than 156 professionals, split tees are common. This is most often seen in National Opens.
Pros and cons of using split tees at a golf course
There are both advantages and disadvantages to using split tees in golf tournaments. Some of the main pros include:
- Allows for more even distribution of players across different tee boxes
- Reduces congestion on the course
- Makes it fairer for all players involved
However, there are also some potential drawbacks to using split tees, such as:
- It may confuse some golfers
- Can add complexity to the tournament planning process
Overall, whether or not to use split tees in a golf tournament is a decision that must be made on a case-by-case basis. The pros and cons must be carefully considered to determine what will work best for each specific tournament.
Split tee times can be beneficial for spectators too
Split tee times can be beneficial not just for the players, but also for the spectators. By staggering the tee times, it ensures that there are always people playing on the course, so spectators can always watch someone.
Additionally, it prevents large crowds from forming at any one hole, which can make it difficult to see.
Split tee times also allow spectators to move around the course and watch different players, rather than being stuck in one spot.
And finally, it helps to spread out the wear and tear on the golf course, preventing any one area from becoming too crowded or potentially damaged.
How long do you have to wait between tee-off times?
Typically, groups wait about 10 minutes between tee-offs. This allows each group enough time to clear the tee box before the next group starts their round.
The time between tee-offs will vary depending on the tournament or course policy. Some tournaments may have a set time for all groups to tee off, while others may have different times for each group. It is important to check with the tournament organizers to find out what the specific rules are for each event.
What Are Double Tees?
Double teeing (also known as twin teeing) is when a golf course sends groups simultaneously off the 1st and 10th tees for the first two hours of the day.
Other Start Types in Golf Tournaments
Standard
The standard start in golf is when each golfer starts at hole 1 and completes the round at hole 18. This is the preferred start for a tournament that has fewer total golfers.
Shotgun
A shotgun start is when all golfers in a tournament begin their round at the same time.
This works great with a tournament size of 72 golfers as golfers are split into groups of 4 (fourball) and each group will be assigned a different starting hole.
Each group will then rotate until all 18 holes have been completed. For example, if a group started on hole 6, they would complete their round on hole 5.
Double shotgun
A double shotgun start will work the same as a regular shotgun start, except this time the field will be split into two separate start times.
Wave Start
A wave start is when groups of golfers tee off at set intervals throughout the day. This type of start is typically used for large tournaments with more than 200 golfers. It allows for a more even distribution of players throughout the day and prevents large groups from forming on the course.
Final thoughts on split tees in golf
Split tee times can be a helpful way to manage large golf tournaments. They allow for a more even distribution of players and can help to reduce congestion on the course. However, split tee times can also add complexity to the tournament planning process. Ultimately, whether or not to use split tee times is a decision that must be made on a case-by-case basis.