Questions
FAQ
Best-ball basics are standard. Fees, dates, handicaps, and prizes will be posted here once they are official.
The format
What is two-person best ball?
Two players enter as a team. On each hole, both play their own ball from tee to cup. The team score for that hole is the lower of the two scores. Those team scores are added up over the round, usually 18 holes. You never pick up your partner’s ball and play it; you just use the better result.
Do both players have to finish every hole?
In standard best ball, if one player already has a score the team is happy with, the other may not need to finish — depending on the event’s local rules. The official policy for The Tational is still TBA.
Is it gross or net? Are there flights?
Not decided yet. Handicap allowances, flights, and whether the main board is gross, net, or both will be announced before the first event.
The series
When is the first event?
Spring 2027. The exact date is TBA.
Where is it played?
On a public Bay Area course. The pilot venue is TBA. Later events will be posted on the Events page as they are booked.
How much does it cost?
Not set. Season membership and the spring pilot entry fee are both coming soon. Other event fees will be listed per tournament. This site will not invent those numbers.
What is the difference between membership and event entry?
A season membership is planned, and each tournament will also have an entry fee. What is included with membership, and whether members still pay a per-event fee, is TBA.
What are the prizes?
There will be real prizes. The amounts, form, and how they are awarded will be published with each event. They are not listed here yet on purpose.
Who can play?
This is an amateur series aimed at the Bay Area. Exact eligibility (residency, handicap range, amateur status details) is TBA.
How do I sign up?
Use the Register page to join the interest list and reserve your team spot. Your information is saved securely so we can contact you about the first event; see Privacy. No payment is collected now.
Will I have a player profile or login?
Yes — that is the plan. You will be able to sign in and see your handicap, partner, entries, and results. The profile page is a preview. Accounts are not live yet.
Where do I follow along?
On this site, and on X at @thetational. Questions can go to bayareatational@gmail.com.