Planning a Golf Tournament: A Step-by-Step Guide to Success

Step 1: Set Your Goals and Budget

Before diving into logistics, define the purpose of your tournament. Is it a charity fundraiser, company outing, member event, or social competition? Your goals will shape your venue, pricing, and sponsor strategy.

Set a budget that covers essentials like:

• Course fees
• Catering
• Player gifts
• Marketing
• Prizes or awards
• Insurance
  

Tip: Leave a buffer for unexpected costs.

Step 2: Choose the Right Course and Date

Select a course that fits your audience’s skill level and budget. Confirm availability well in advance- many courses book out weekends and mornings months ahead.

Ask about:

• Shotgun or tee time formats
• Group size limits
• Rain policy
• Included amenities (carts, range balls, food, etc.)
  

Pick a date that avoids holidays and major events. Aim for 3–6 months out for proper planning.

Step 3: Decide on Format and Extras

Golfers love variety. Choose a format that fits your crowd:

• Scramble (most popular for casual play)
• Shamble
• Best Ball
• Stroke Play (for competitive tournaments)
  

Think about contests or side games like:

• Closest to the Pin
• Longest Drive
• Hole-in-One challenge
• Putting competition
  

These add fun and help attract sponsors.

Step 4: Recruit Sponsors and Set Levels

Sponsorships are key for offsetting costs and adding value. Create tiered packages like:

• Title Sponsor
• Hole Sponsor
• Food & Beverage Sponsor
• Swag Bag Sponsor
  

✅ Pro Tip:

Partaake offers pre-built sponsor package templates you can configure in minutes. Customize perks, pricing, and logos- then publish a live sponsor page to start collecting commitments instantly.

Step 5: Open Registration and Promote

Make it easy for players to register online and pay securely. Share your event:

• On social media
• Via email lists
• In your community or club
• With your sponsors’ networks
  

Consider early bird discounts or group rates to encourage signups.

Step 6: Plan Day-Of Logistics

Create a schedule and checklist for tournament day:

• Check-in tables
• Cart signage
• Scorecards or digital scoring
• Volunteer roles
• Awards ceremony
• Raffle or auction setup (if fundraising)
  

Test tech and signage ahead of time to avoid surprises.

Step 7: Follow Up Post-Event

After the tournament, thank players and sponsors. Share photos, results, and a short recap. Send follow-up emails to gather feedback and encourage future participation.

Make It Easier with Partaake

Partaake helps you plan golf tournaments with less stress and more polish. From registration to sponsor management, our platform simplifies the process- so you can focus on creating a great experience.

✅ Create your event website in minutes

✅ Collect player and team registrations

✅ Customize sponsor packages

✅ Track payments and tee times

✅ Send emails, check in players, and more