England Golf reports record rise in shorter rounds

Recent data has shown that more and more golfers are playing shorter rounds of golf.

While 2024 was another success for full rounds, England Golf has reported a record rise in the number of nine-hole scores submitted.

At a staggering increase of 17.89% on 2023, there were 142,043 more nine-hole scores posted.

A record total of 10,213,894 scores were submitted via the World Handicap System (WHS), a remarkable 811,712 more scores than 2023, showing an 8.63% increase.

Meanwhile, 539,428 more general play scores were submitted in 2024, at an increase of 13.67%.

It is no surprise, however, that England Golf Chief Operating Officer Richard Flint recognised the popularity of shorter golf formats.

• LIV star receives special invite to The Masters

• Tom McKibbin addresses talk of shock LIV move

“The huge increase in nine-hole scores submitted shows that there is an appetite for shorter forms of the game, especially in that it helps cater for some people’s lifestyles,” he said.

“We want to embrace people to golf in whatever way, whether that’s playing 18 holes, nine holes, or even playing some adventure golf with friends and family.

“The MyEG app is there for everyone to experience and track their progress when playing different forms of golf.

“We simply wish to get as many people to taste the game and then go as far as they wish.”

Shorter golf formats are no new phenomenon, either.

Speaking to the PGA last October, Sir Nick Faldo said he is a “huge fan” of shorter courses moving forward.

The six-time major champion insisted that he has been pushing for the change for years and would like to see clubs move down to 12 holes.

“It’s taken 20-plus years but we’re finally getting people to go, ‘You know what? Eighteen is a lot. I can’t disappear from the family for six hours,’” Faldo added.

“Pop down, do nine holes. Do 12. I’m a big fan of 12 holes, because you can do two sixes. Do another one and there’s your 18.”

• Tiger Woods in fresh legal battle with Sun Day Red

• TGL food and drink prices will make your eyes water

That is the case at Chiddingfold Golf Club, a parkland venue that made the controversial decision to reduce its layout.

But head pro Phil Stevens told bunkered.co.uk that the club is reaping the rewards.

“It’s absolutely taken off,” he said. “We’re busier with 12 holes than we ever were with 18.

“It’s a different clientele. A much younger clientele. People who play for two hours tend to be a bit more cheerful and stop and have a beer for a bit longer.

“We’ve never had such a good response.”

But there is little to worry about for those who play 18-hole golf. It’s not going anywhere, as England Golf found there were 669,669 more scores submitted (increase of 7.78%).

It found that 57,703 more scores were submitted by females (5.98% increase) and 754,009 more scores were submitted by males (8.93% increase).

John Turnbull A graduate of the University of Stirling, John joined the bunkered team in 2023 as a Content Producer, with a responsibility for covering all breaking news, tour news, grassroots content and much more besides. A keen golfer, he plays the majority of his golf at Falkirk Golf Club. Top of his 'bucket list' is a round of Pebble Beach... ideally in the company of Gareth Bale.