Golf is often seen as a solitary sport where personal improvement and the pursuit of perfection are the main goals. However, injecting a bit of friendly competition into your rounds with golf partners can be a fantastic way to sharpen your focus and elevate your game. And no, I’m not suggesting you need to bet large sums of money or engage in overly complicated contests. Simple, low-stakes games can be incredibly effective—and fun!

One of my favorite competitive games is a combination of "Poleys" and "Three Putts."

Here’s how it works:

• Poleys: For every hole where you achieve a "poleys" (which means getting on the green in regulation but outside the length of the flagstick), you earn a dollar. This encourages you to aim for better positioning on the green and rewards accuracy.

• Three Putts: Conversely, if you have a three-putt on any hole, you lose a dollar. This rule incentivizes better putting and short-game skills, addressing an area that can often be neglected in practice.

The game concludes with a twist on the 18th hole: a "double or nothing" stroke play hole. The player who is trailing gets a stroke advantage, making the final hole both thrilling and decisive. Interestingly, 95% of the time, no money actually exchanges hands, but the competition fosters plenty of laughter and playful banter throughout the round.

What I particularly enjoy about this game is its inclusivity. It’s suitable for players of all skill levels, whether you’re a low handicap or a high handicap golfer. The beauty lies in its focus on short game and putting—the areas where anyone can improve regardless of their overall game. It levels the playing field and highlights the importance of the finer details of golf.

I find that having something on the line, even if it’s just a dollar, keeps me more engaged with my putting and short game. The dreaded three-putt becomes a powerful motivator to sharpen my focus and refine my skills.

Do you have a favorite competition or game that you play with your regular golf partners? Please share your ideas and experiences! It’s always fun to hear how others add a bit of friendly rivalry to their rounds.