What is a Golf Turkey Shoot? A Fun and Exciting Tournament Format

Golf turkey shoots are a unique and entertaining tournament format that golfers of all skill levels can enjoy. In this article we’ll explain exactly what a golf turkey shoot is the history behind it, how it works, and why it’s such a fun alternative to standard tournament play.

What is a Golf Turkey Shoot?

A golf turkey shoot is a tournament format where the objective is to score three birdies in a row or a “turkey” as it’s called over the course of 9 or 18 holes. It’s a team event, usually with either 2 or 4 person teams, and utilizes a scramble format.

The scoring works like this:

• If a team scores a birdie (1 under par) on a hole, they get 1 point
• If they get a birdie and are closest to the pin on that hole, they get 2 points
• The first team to score 3 points (a turkey) wins the tournament

It’s an exciting format because teams are constantly trying to string together birdies to get that coveted turkey. Any team that achieves it is celebrated with fanfare, as it’s a difficult accomplishment.

A Brief History of the Golf Turkey Shoot

The origins of the golf turkey shoot tournament format are unclear, but it appears to have come about sometime in the early 20th century. The “turkey” scoring concept mirrors that of the popular Turkey Shoot competitions among rifle marksmen around the late 1800s/early 1900s.

The term turkey in golf refers to three consecutive birdies, relating to getting three “birds” in a row. Over time, golfers adopted the turkey shoot format as a fun competition amongst fellow players.

While not as popular as formats like match play or stroke play, turkey shoots have endured as a unique tournament style that brings excitement through its focus on stringing together birdies for the win. Courses will often host them as special events.

How Does a Golf Turkey Shoot Work?

The standard rules for a golf turkey shoot are:

• Teams: Turkey shoots are team events, with 2 or 4 person teams being most common. Partners can be chosen randomly or selectively.

• Format: Teams use a scramble format, where all players tee off, decide on the best shot, and then play from there until holing out.

• Scoring: Teams get 1 point for a birdie, and 2 points for a birdie + closest-to-pin on a hole. First to 3 points wins.

• Duration: Some turkey shoots last 9 holes and others 18 holes. Winning in 9 holes is more difficult.

• Shotgun Start: Turkey shoots normally utilize a shotgun start, where groups start simultaneously from different holes. This keeps pace of play up.

• Pace of Play: Fast play is emphasized, with teams given time limits per hole to keep things moving. 10-15 minutes per hole is standard.

There are also fun additional rules like rewarding longest drives or closest second shots that bring additional elements of engagement. But the main goal remains stringing together birdies for turkeys!

Why Are Golf Turkey Shoots So Fun?

There are several reasons why golf turkey shoots make for such enjoyable golf tournaments:

• Team Scramble Format: Playing as a scramble team takes pressure off individual players and makes things more social and fun. Turkey shoots are designed to be inclusive.

• Exciting and Unpredictable: The quest for turkeys creates suspense and leads to exciting, unpredictable outcomes. Anyone can get hot and string together unexpected birdies.

• Fast Paced: With an emphasis on pace of play, turkey shoots move quick and maintain energy. The speed keeps players engaged.

• Less Pressure Than Stroke Play: Stroke play tournaments can induce pressure and frustration. Turkey shoots put emphasis on having fun over strict rules.

• Social: Turkey shoots are lively, social events. The team format fosters camaraderie and friendly competition.

For golfers who want an entertaining alternative to standard tournament golf, turkey shoots deliver a fast-paced, team-focused competition centered around excitement. The quest for turkeys and celebration when they happen make for a fun environment.

Tips for Playing in Your First Turkey Shoot

If you’re new to competing in golf turkey shoots, keep these tips in mind:

• Practice short game shots: Making a lot of birdies relies on quality chip, pitch, and sand shots. Dial these in at the range before your event.

• Emphasize putting: Great putting translates into more birdies holed. Spend time practicing lag putts and short birdie putts to be ready.

• Go for it off the tee: Don’t play conservative, layup golf in a turkey shoot. Be aggressive off the tee and try to set up short birdie putts.

• Stay patient on pace of play: If you’re used to taking your time, turkey shoot pace may seem rushed. But embrace the speed and energy.

• Have fun: Turkey shoots are meant to be fun and social. Stay relaxed and don’t worry about strict golf rules. Enjoy the experience!

While golf turkey shoots require some adjustments from normal golf, they provide an entertaining twist to the game. Following these tips will have you ready to compete and string together birdies for turkeys!

If you’re looking for an alternative tournament format that emphasizes fun, excitement, and teamwork, a golf turkey shoot is perfect. The quest to string together birdies and score the elusive turkey makes for a lively competition that any golfer can enjoy.

With a rich tradition dating back over a century, turkey shoots bring good-natured competition, camaraderie, and unpredictable play. The scramble team format allows players of any skill level to contribute in the shared goal of achieving turkeys. And the fast pace and energetic atmosphere keep things moving.

So grab some fellow golfers, form your turkey shoot teams, and get ready for a spirited tournament centered around having a good time. Turkey shoots capture so many elements that make golf a beloved game. Next time your club hosts one, make sure to sign up and enjoy golf at its lively, fun-filled best!