The Ambrose

This year we've upped the fun factor, with the introduction of an Ambrose Day, preceding the Tournament proper. Based on the well-known "Scramble" format, this should provide participants with a fun chance to get acquainted with each other, and the course.

NOTE: The team you are in for this Ambrose day will also be the team you are in, for our official Invitational Tournament proper.

BEFORE PLAY

  1. The 4-man teams will be compiled and announced directly after our AFL Grand Final function (Saturday September 27).

  2. Each team elects a captain (usually the lowest handicapper, but not compulsory).

  3. Your team playing handicap is determined by adding all individual handicaps and dividing by EIGHT. This handicap must be recorded to TWO decimal places on your specially printed Ambrose score card at the start of play.

DURING PLAY

  1. Each team member tees off individually as per normal golf (playing order decided by the captain).

  2. The captain then collaborates and decides which is the "best" ball in play. All players travel to that ball, picking up the remaining balls along the way.

  3. This ball is marked with a tee and may then be picked up and cleaned if necessary.

  4. All four players then take turns placing and hitting their ball from within a club-length radius of the marker (no nearer the hole). Order of play is completely up to the team / captain.

  5. Play continues in this manner until one or more players are on the green.

  6. Green play proceeds similarly, with the "best ball" chosen and marked. Putts are taken in turn from that point (within 10cm either side of the marker).

  7. Individual players are subject to the same local and R&A rules when hitting each ball (e.g. hazards, out-of-bounds, penalties etc)

  8. Balls hit out of bounds cannot be selected as best balls.

  9. Balls ending up in hazards (including bunkers) may be selected as best balls. All four players would be hitting from the hazard, and subject to all the normal hazard rules (and penalties) or regular golf.

  10. Minimum THREE Drives: The captain must ensure that each player uses his tee shot as the best ball a MINIMUM OF THREE TIMES in the round. Team disqualification applies if this rule is not followed.

  11. Calcutta: During the days play, teams are also asked to collaborate and decide on their "financial shareholder position" for the purpose of the upcoming Calcutta, on Sunday night. For an explanation, please visit our Calcutta page. The agreed financial position (in %) must be provided to tournament organisers prior to the Calcutta.

AFTER PLAY

  1. At the end of the round, scores are tallied, the team handicap deducted, and a NETT score is thus calculated (to two decimal places)

  2. Cards are checked, SIGNED and submitted to the TOC. Unsigned cards risk team disqualification!

  3. A prize presentation ceremony will take place in the clubhouse immediately after play.

TIPS FOR FASTER PLAY

  1. Play Ready Golf at all times! If you are finished putting, you are encouraged to immediately go tee off on the next hole regardless of who else has yet to putt in your team.

  2. "Early putt-out" rule: If a player misses a putt by 20cm or less, he may be permitted by the captain to complete the hole prior to all teammates putting. This may speed up play on some holes, especially if the next tee is already vacant.

  3. Manage your scoring and card marking on the NEXT TEE, not on the hole you just finished! Ensure your caddies know this as well.

  4. Discuss best ball selection quickly! Where possible, make these decisions BEFORE leaving the tee bed.

Remember, Ambroses are designed for FUN and enjoyment. Please bear that in mind when participating.

(C)2025 The Invitational Pty Ltd.