Stableford is a scoring system that awards points on each hole based on your net score against par — and the player with the most points wins. A net par is worth 2 points, with more for better holes and fewer (down to zero) for worse ones.
It was invented by Dr Frank Stableford in 1932 to stop golfers giving up after a bad start. Because the worst you can score on any hole is zero, one wipe doesn't ruin your day — making it the most forgiving and sociable format in the game.
The Stableford points table
Points are based on your net score (gross minus the handicap shots you receive on that hole) compared to par:
| Net score on the hole | Points |
|---|---|
| Net albatross (3 under) | 5 |
| Net eagle (2 under) | 4 |
| Net birdie (1 under) | 3 |
| Net par | 2 |
| Net bogey (1 over) | 1 |
| Net double bogey or worse | 0 |
How handicaps fit in
You receive your handicap shots on the hardest holes (by stroke index), exactly as in net stroke play. On a hole where you get a shot, a gross 5 on a par 4 becomes a net 4 — a net par worth 2 points. That's why a 20-handicapper and a 6-handicapper can compete on level terms.
What's a good score?
36 points is the magic number. It means you scored a net par on all 18 holes — i.e. you played exactly to your handicap. Score above 36 and you've beaten your handicap; 40+ is a seriously good day out.
Why it's perfect for a society or league
- Nobody's out of it. A blow-up hole costs zero points, not your whole card.
- It keeps pace up. Once you can't score on a hole, pick up and move on.
- Mixed abilities, fair result. The net points system levels everyone automatically.
- Easy to total — and easy to drop straight into a league table or order of merit.
Run a Stableford day or season-long order of merit
Four Putt totals the points, applies each player's shots, and ranks the leaderboard live. Free for a small group.
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