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How It Works
Medal play is the simplest format: every stroke on every hole counts. The player who completes the round in the fewest total strokes wins — gross by default for a pure test of ball-striking, or net if you enter handicap overrides.
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Every Hole Matters
Unlike match play, you cannot concede a hole. A blowup on hole 3 still counts in full. Managing big numbers is as important as making birdies — discipline and damage control win Medal rounds.
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Options & Variations
Bet-per-player (default $20) sets the buy-in. Medal is gross by default, but entering any per-player handicap override switches scoring to net — strokes then follow standard USGA allocation, so a course handicap over 18 earns a second stroke on the hardest holes. Player order is configurable.
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Payouts
All players pay the buy-in; the lowest total collects. Ties break by back-nine, then back-six, then back-three, then the 18th hole.
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Pro Tips
•Bogey golf beats blow-up golf — take your medicine and move on.
•Leave handicap overrides blank for a pure gross test; add them to level the field.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Medal in golf?
Medal: Pure stroke play — lowest gross score wins. Medal play is the simplest format: every stroke on every hole counts. The player who completes the round in the fewest total strokes wins — gross by default for a pure test of ball-striking, or net if you enter handicap …
How many players do you need for Medal?
Medal plays with 2–12 players.
How do payouts work in Medal?
All players pay the buy-in; the lowest total collects. Ties break by back-nine, then back-six, then back-three, then the 18th hole.