Exploring the Stableford Scoring System and the Road to the Grand Finale
Golf is a sport of skill and precision, relying on a clear scoring system that ensures fair competition for players of all levels.
The 2024 NCBA Golf Series draws golfers from across the region, offering a chance to explore how golf’s point system works, especially the stableford format used in this competition.
In golf, unlike other sports where higher scores win, the goal is to achieve the lowest score. In a stableford format, players are awarded points based on their performance on each hole, not by the total number of strokes.
Points are awarded as follows:
- Eagle (2 strokes under par): 4 points
- Birdie (1 stroke under par): 3 points
- Par (equal to par): 2 points
- Bogey (1 stroke over par): 1 point
- Double bogey or worse: 0 points
This system allows golfers of all skill levels to compete fairly.
How does the NCBA Golf Series use this system?
The 2024 NCBA Golf Series follows the stableford point system, with players tracking their progress through the competition. Players must compete using their handicap index, which is part of the World Handicapping System, ensuring fairness for all.
The competition is divided into three divisions based on handicaps:
- Division 1: Players with handicaps up to 12
- Division 2: Players with handicaps between 13 and 24
- Division 3: Players with handicaps of 25 and above
The Regular Season
The regular season in a golf series is the longest phase, often running from early in the year. The 2024 NCBA Golf Series, for example, began in March and will conclude with the grand finale on November 29th. Over the months, players accumulate points based on their performance, with top players qualifying for the finale.
This extended season helps players improve their skills, adapt to various courses, and refine their strategies. Competing at different golf clubs with unique challenges also adds to their experience.
Grand Finale Qualification
As the season progresses, top players from each division qualify for the Grand Finale. The best performers in each division—male and female winners from Division 1 and 2, along with the overall winner from Division 3—will compete for top prizes and the title of NCBA Golf Series Champion.
In its fourth edition this year, the NCBA Golf Series expanded to include stops in Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya. This regional growth highlights the rising popularity of golf and NCBA’s commitment to nurturing golfing talent across East Africa. With each tournament, the level of competition rises, ensuring more excitement with every event.
