- Sarah Lindsey
How to Host a Successful Golf Tournament
It may not be the Masters or a PGA championship but hosting a company golf tournament or fundraiser can be important for engaging with people from your organization. Hosting a golf tournament can be intimidating and whether you’re on your way to becoming your course’s next pro or are a novice to the game, everyone has questions on how to host a successful golf tournament. This list is compiled of all the best tips and tricks that will help your golf tournament or golf fundraiser event go off without a hitch.
Create your budget: The cost of hosting a golf tournament may seem counter-intuitive, especially if your golf tournament is a fundraiser but fear not, the initial investment in preparing for your event will pay off! Once you know the amount you have to work with for planning, the rest of your tournament planning will be a breeze. Another tip to consider when creating your budget is finding sponsors who will endorse your event. Select organizations to sponsor select holes or the entire tournament.
Select the right course: This comes down to knowing your event participants. If the tournament field is comprised of novices then it may be better to choose an executive course (an executive course is usually shorter or composed of more par 3 holes). On the other hand, if your tournament field is made up of amateurs or casual players you may want to consider hosting your event at a country club or a popular public course. The right course will make or break your event!
Don’t forget about the tee gifts: The tee gift is an opportunity to show your players your appreciation for their participation. Select products such as tees, golf balls, hats, towels, or maybe even ball markers. Don’t be afraid to get creative! Consider reaching out to potential sponsors who can provide company-branded tee items. Check out our Pinterest page for more tee gift ideas.
Make sure to have food and drink available: Playing 18 holes can take up to 5 or 6 hours depending on the players, so you don't want your attendees to be hungry or thirsty. Providing food and drink is essential to your event's success. Refreshments could be provided by the course or a secondary location. Speak to a course representative about the different options they provide and if they offer a banquet room.
Think about the scoring: Do you want your tournament play to be a scramble, best ball, Stableford, or stroke play. If you have no clue what style to choose or which format is best for your event check out this article here.
It’s all about the ambiance: Take the time to create an atmosphere that is comfortable for your event attendees. Take pictures of groups, offer free drink tickets, and create some fun contests. Contests like longest drive, longest putt, and closest to the pin are popular choices.
Staff and volunteers: Your team is your best chance of tournament success. Your tournament day crew should know some golf basics and be ready to help with any rules officiating or question needs. Those helping with the tournament should also make sure that each group is keeping pace so that those playing behind them don’t feel any lags.
The most important of any golf tournament is to make sure that the event is fun! The tournament field paid to be a part of an event that would be enjoyable. By taking all the necessary planning steps and working out the small details you'll help ensure that your tournament is a hole in one!
*This article was inspired by articles written by Joel Beal and Kris Hart. To see their respective articles click the link. An easy, step-by-step guide on organizing, hosting, managing, and enjoying a golf outing and How to Run a Golf Outing: 5 Tips.