Golf Shotgun Start Guide: Assignments, Timing & Check-In

Understand the start

A shotgun start sends groups to multiple holes so play begins at roughly the same time. This can bring a large field back to the clubhouse together.

Assign groups logically

Match each group to a starting hole and account for courses that use A/B groups on some holes.

Allow travel time

Players need time to reach their assigned holes after the briefing.

Print two views

Give players a simple group/start list and give organisers a master operational sheet.

Coordinate with the course

The golf club or course should approve the final assignment and any double-start holes.

Printable planning checklist

• Confirm the course permits a shotgun start
• List final groups
• Assign one or more groups to holes
• Allow travel time to tees
• Brief players before movement
• Give organisers a master start sheet
• Handle late changes centrally

Common questions

How many groups are needed for a shotgun start?

It varies by course and event. Courses may use one group on many holes or A/B groups on selected holes.

What time should players leave the clubhouse?

Allow enough time for the furthest groups to reach their holes before the stated start.

Who controls final hole assignments?

Coordinate the final sheet with the golf course or event golf professional.

Turn the plan into event-day paperwork

Once the player list and sponsor list are stable, the work becomes operational: check-in, groups, starting assignments, signs, contest sheets, scoring and prizes. GolfDayPack is designed to generate those coordinated documents from one set of event details.