A pro-am is a golf event where professional and amateur golfers play together in teams. Pro-ams range from local events at a club, with a few local professionals, to the famous pro-ams held before professional tournaments, where amateurs play alongside tour players. For amateurs, it's a rare chance to play with a professional, watch their game up close and play a course in tournament condition. Here's how pro-ams work and how to make the most of one.
What is a pro-am?
In a pro-am, a team is usually made up of one professional and between one and four amateurs. Teams compete for team prizes, while professionals may also compete for an individual prize.
Types of pro-am
- Tournament pro-ams: held on the practice days before a professional event, with tour players and invited amateurs.
- Celebrity pro-ams: featuring well-known figures from entertainment and sport.
- Regional and club pro-ams: organised by professional associations or clubs, with local club professionals and amateurs. Many are open to any golfer with a handicap.
- Charity pro-ams: raising money for good causes.
Formats
| Format | How it works |
|---|---|
| Better ball (one, two or three best scores) | The best net scores on each hole count towards the team score |
| Stableford better ball | Team scores are based on Stableford points from the best balls. Read Stableford strategy |
| Scramble | All players hit, choose the best shot and play from there. Read golf scramble strategy |
The professional's score often counts gross, while amateurs receive a handicap allowance.
Handicaps
Amateurs need an official handicap. Pro-ams set a handicap allowance, often a percentage of course handicap, and may cap the maximum handicap that can be used. Read the World Handicap System explained.
How amateurs get a place
- Sponsors and partners of professional tournaments receive places for clients and guests.
- Hospitality packages sometimes include pro-am places.
- Charity auctions and bids.
- Open entry: regional and club pro-ams usually accept entries from golfers with handicaps, with an entry fee.
- Invitations from clubs or professionals.
Tournament pro-am places can be expensive; local pro-ams are much more affordable.
Preparing for a pro-am
- Practise your short game and putting, where you can contribute most.
- Know the format and how the team score works.
- Check the dress code and arrival time.
- Warm up properly. Read the pre-round warm-up routine.
- Bring enough balls, water and snacks.
- Brush up on the rules and etiquette. Read golf etiquette 101.
Etiquette when playing with a professional
- Introduce yourself and thank them at the end.
- Keep up the pace: be ready to play and pick up when you can't help the team. Read pace of play.
- Follow the professional's lead on the green: let them putt when they need to, and don't stand on their line.
- Respect their preparation, especially at tournament pro-ams, where they're practising for the event.
- Ask questions at the right moments, such as walking between shots, rather than while they're preparing.
- Don't ask for a swing lesson unless they offer.
- Enjoy yourself: professionals appreciate amateurs who are relaxed and good company.
What you can learn
- Course management: how professionals choose targets and clubs. Read golf course management.
- Routine and tempo. Read golf pre-shot routine and golf tempo and rhythm.
- Short game: how they chip, pitch and putt.
- Attitude: how they handle bad shots.
Frequently asked questions
What does pro-am mean?
A golf event in which professional and amateur golfers play together in teams.
How do I get into a pro-am?
Through sponsorships, hospitality packages, charity bids or open entry to regional and club pro-ams.
Do I need a handicap to play in a pro-am?
Usually yes. Amateurs play off a handicap allowance set by the organisers.
What should I do when I can't help the team on a hole?
Pick up your ball to keep play moving, and support your teammates.
The bottom line
A pro-am is a great chance to play with a professional, enjoy a course in top condition and learn from watching up close. Understand the format and handicaps, prepare your short game, keep up the pace, follow the professional's lead and enjoy the day. For more on golf events, read volunteering at golf tournaments.