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Step 1
Establish a handicap with the USGA or enter information on a handicap calculator like the one at CSGNet (see Resources below). You need to provide the scores and slope ratings of courses for the last 5 or more rounds of golf played. The handicap is important because it ranks your golf abilities with other players.
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Step 2
Decide what format of tournament you want to enter. You can choose from tournaments with single players pitted against each other, 2-player teams and 4-player teams. Many golf tournaments feature a scramble format. In a scramble, each team player hits a drive from the tee box. Each shot is analyzed to see which position is best. All of the players hit their next shot from the same (best) position as chosen by the team until the ball is in the cup.
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Step 3
Determine how competitive you want the tournament to be. You can find tournaments with a casual feel and a focus on having fun or you can play in serious tournaments.
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Step 4
Before the tournament, practice your short game (chipping and putting) to score better, especially if you are a high handicapper.
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Step 5
Find tournaments by looking at the message board in the pro shop at golf courses where you play and listening for ads on the radio or on TV featuring local charity golf tournaments. Pick up a copy of an area golf periodical from the pro shop at one of the courses you play to get information on formal tournaments. Join a golf league in your area to play different tournaments and formats during golf season.
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Step 6
Ask for an entry form from the contact person running the golf tournament. Fill out the entry form and look for deadlines when the tournament needs the forms. Pay your entry fee on time. Send entry forms in early to guarantee a spot in the event.
