For a sport that’s steeped in tradition, it’s always interesting to explore new and exciting ways to “mix things up” in the golf game.
Some are crazier than others, and are probably best reserved for the local pitch ‘n’ putt than a respected golf course. But one variant of the game that’s proving more and more popular is the Texas Scramble.
An interesting take on team golf, Texas Scramble puts the destiny of the hole in each player’s hands, offering a varied and enthralling format.
But what exactly is Texas Scramble? Where did it get its name? And how is the game played? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
At Clarkes Golf we’re home to a huge selection of golf clubs and golf club sets from the sport’s biggest manufacturers. Offering everything you need for a top team game the next time you head to the course, whatever you’re playing.
But if you happen to be playing Texas Scramble, and you’ve never played before – or you just want to brush up on the rules – you’ll want to keep reading…
How to play Texas Scramble
If you’re looking for an easy yet thrilling new way to play golf with friends, Texas Scramble is the game for you.
Here’s a quick breakdown of how Texas Scramble is played:
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Players are divided into teams, with each player in a team taking their own tee shots.
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The best shot from this selection is the one that’s chosen to be played as the next shot. Once again, all team members take their second shots from this position, with their own golf balls.
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Players continue selecting the best shots until the hole is complete.
It’s a wild take on a game that’s been around for centuries. Nevertheless, when played by a group of friends on a hot summer’s day, it can be one heck of a fun day out!
The only thing to be cautious of with Texas Scramble is that it takes time to determine the best shot after every players’ strike, and even more time for every player to place their ball in that spot and take another shot. So it’s probably best to keep your team numbers low (two or three a side is common) or to visit the course during quieter periods, to avoid holding anybody up.
You may have also heard of the Florida Scramble, another popular format across team games and charity events. The only major difference is that the player who hits the best shot on any given turn is banned from play on the next shot.
How is Texas Scramble scored?
Thankfully, if you’re already familiar with regular stroke play, you’ll feel right at home scoring a Texas Scramble.
Scoring holes played during these games works exactly the same as any other game; the total number of shots taken from the ‘best position’ is counted, with the lowest score winning the hole. Whichever team hits the lowest score by the end of the round wins.
You can incorporate your own scoring rules into the game based on factors like handicap, age, etc. But this is something you can easily figure out on the day before you all begin.
How did Texas Scramble get its name?
Unsurprisingly, the ‘Texas’ element of the game’s title weaved its way in because Texas was the state where the scramble format of play found the most popularity when it first came into the spotlight back in the 1930s.
Yes, it’s been around for around 100 years!
Before then, you may have heard it referred to as Captain’s Choice; an appropriate title, given it was the duty of the Captain to choose the shots that were to be played.
For once, it’s nice to see an element of the golf game with an easy-to-comprehend name – try explaining a birdie or an albatross to an absolute beginner!
Find the best new clubs to play Texas Scramble at Clarkes Golf
Ready to head out on a new golfing adventure? You’ll need the right tools at your disposal to take home the Texas Scramble trophy!
At Clarkes, we have a fantastic selection of golf drivers, golf irons, golf fairways, golf wedges, golf putters and more you can use to shoot the best round of your life – all from golfing brands you know and trust.
So take a look at our selection at the links above, or give us a call on 01744 419914 to speak to a member of the team.