Definition:

Split Sixes is a golf format or betting game for a group of three golfers. On each hole of the round, six points are at stake, and the three golfers split those points. At the end of the round, high points wins. If a betting game, payouts are based on each players' accrued points.

So, how are the six points split on each hole? This way:

• The golfer with the low score on the hole gets 4 points

• The golfer with the middle score on the hole gets 2 points
• The golfer with the high score on the hole gets 0 points

Of course, there are likely to be tie scores on many holes. How does that affect the points distribution? Thusly:

• Two golfers tie for low score: Both get 3 points, the high scorer gets 0
• Two golfers tie for high score: The low scorer gets 4 points; the two golfers tied for high score each get 1 point
• All three golfers tie: Each golfer gets 2 points

Some golfers prefer not to award any points at all if there is a 3-way tie; that's something for members of the group to decide prior to beginning the round.
If playing Split Sixes as a betting game, golfers in the group must also decide how much each point (or unit) is worth. Tally up the points at the end of the round and pay out the differences. Let's say Player A wins with 43 points, Player B has 35 points and Player C has 30 points. A collects eight units from B and 13 units from C; B pays eight units to A and collects 5 units from C; C pays 13 units to A and 5 units to B.

Return to Golf Glossary index

Also Known As: 6-Point Game, English, Cricket

Alternate Spellings: Splix Six, Split 6, Split 6s

Examples: "There's only three of us today, so let's play Split Sixes."

"Who wants to play Split Sixes at a dollar a point?"