Q: We are using the USGA Tie Breaking Method for our tournament, but it does not seem to be calculating correctly. How can I verify the USGA Tie Breaking Method?
A: When using the USGA Tie Breaking Method and multiple players have tied for their overall score for a net competition where the stroke index allocation is not relevant, the following will be used to determine the winner:
The winner will be determined based on the last nine holes, last six holes, last three holes, and finally, the 18th hole. If this method is used in a competition with a multiple tee start, the "last nine holes, last six holes, etc." are considered holes 10-18, 13-18, etc.
The following fraction of the Playing Handicap is deducted from the scores for those holes:
Last 9 holes - 1/2
Last 6 holes - 1/3
Last 3 holes - 1/6
If this method was used, you could use the following spreadsheet to visualize the USGA Tie Breaking Method by downloading or copying the content to a google sheet.
USGA Tie Breaker Verification - Stroke Play (Fraction for the Playing Handicap ≥ 0.5 rounds up before deducting from the gross score)
Once downloaded or copied, fill in the player name, players Playing Handicap. and hole-by-hole scores. The rest of the data will be automatically populated.
Note: Handicap stroke fractions should always be applied in accordance with the rules or recommendations contained within the Handicap System operating in the local jurisdiction.