How a Shotgun Start Works
A shotgun start is a tournament format where all groups begin play simultaneously, each starting on a different hole. Instead of everyone teeing off on hole 1 in sequence, groups are assigned to specific holes across the course. At a designated signal (originally a shotgun blast, now typically a horn, siren, or announcement), every group begins play at the same time.
For example, on an 18-hole course with foursomes, you can accommodate up to 18 groups (72 players) starting simultaneously. Group 1 starts on hole 1, Group 2 starts on hole 2, Group 3 on hole 3, and so on. If there are more than 18 groups, some holes will have two groups: one starting on the tee and one starting in the fairway (called an "A" and "B" start or "double shotgun").
Each group plays the holes in order from their starting hole. A group starting on hole 7 plays 7, 8, 9, 10...18, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Everyone plays the same 18 holes; they just play them in a different order. Scoring works exactly the same as a normal round.
Track Every Shot with Golf Scorecard
Free digital scorecard with handicap calculator, stats tracking, and shareable scorecards.
Download Free on iOSWhy Shotgun Starts Are Used
Everyone Finishes at the Same Time
This is the primary advantage. When everyone starts together, everyone finishes within a 15-20 minute window. This makes post-round activities (awards ceremonies, dinners, prize giving) practical. With traditional tee times spread over 4+ hours, the first group finishes hours before the last, making it impossible to schedule a group event afterward.
Maximizes Participation
A shotgun start can accommodate 100-144 players in a single 4.5-hour window. With traditional tee times (8-10 minute intervals), fitting 144 players would require a 6+ hour window from first tee to last, and the total event would stretch to 10+ hours. Shotgun starts keep the total event duration manageable.
Perfect for Charity and Corporate Events
Charity golf tournaments and corporate outings need structure. Sponsors want to know when the day starts and ends. Participants have schedules. The shotgun start provides a defined timeline: registration at 8 AM, shotgun start at 9 AM, finish by 1:30 PM, lunch and awards at 2 PM. This predictability makes planning straightforward.
Shotgun Start vs Tee Times: Pros and Cons
| Feature | Shotgun Start | Tee Times |
|---|---|---|
| Finish time | Everyone finishes together | Staggered over hours |
| Max players | 72-144 per start | Unlimited (time dependent) |
| Course access | Entire course dedicated | Can mix with regular play |
| Warm-up hole | May start on a hard hole | Always start on hole 1 |
| Post-round events | Easy to schedule | Difficult to coordinate |
| Pace of play | Consistent (everyone playing) | Can have gaps |
History of the Shotgun Start
The shotgun start was invented in 1956 by Jim Russell, the head professional at Walla Walla Country Club in Walla Walla, Washington. Facing the challenge of running a tournament efficiently, Russell had the idea of positioning groups at every hole and firing a shotgun into the air as the starting signal. The literal shotgun blast could be heard across the entire course, ensuring all groups knew to begin play simultaneously.
The concept was an immediate success and spread rapidly through American golf. Today, shotgun starts are the standard format for charity tournaments, corporate outings, member-guest events, and club championships across the world. While the actual shotgun has been replaced by air horns, sirens, and PA systems, the name has stuck for nearly 70 years.
Shotgun Start Logistics
Hole Assignments
Groups are assigned starting holes before the event. Assignments are printed on scorecards or shared digitally. Many organizers post a large board showing group names and starting holes at the registration area. Players drive their carts to their assigned hole and wait for the signal.
Cart Staging
Carts are typically pre-staged near the clubhouse with group numbers and starting holes displayed on the cart. Players load their bags, check their scorecard for their starting hole, and drive to their assigned tee. Arriving 20-30 minutes before the start allows time for a few practice putts and warm-up swings.
Scoring Consideration
Scoring in a shotgun start is identical to a regular round. The starting hole does not matter. Your score on each hole is the same whether it is the first hole you play or the last. Handicap strokes are applied based on the hole's stroke index, not the order you play them.
Score Your Next Shotgun Tournament
Golf Scorecard App handles scoring for any starting hole. Track your team's scores, calculate handicaps, and share results instantly.
