When you’re out on the green, a frequent term you’ll hear is “gimme.” It’s a crucial part of golf etiquette, especially in casual rounds, but there’s often confusion about whether a gimme counts as a stroke.
Quick Answer: In informal, non-competitive play, a gimme is generally accepted as not counting as an additional stroke; it’s an agreement that the remaining putt is so short that it’s assumed to be made. However, in official play and according to the rules of golf, every ball must be holed, and a gimme would indeed count as a stroke if not putted.
Table: Gimme Guidelines in Golf
| Situation | Does a Gimme Count as a Stroke? | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Casual Play | No | Used to speed up play; not officially recorded |
| Competitive Play | Yes | Must putt the ball into the hole; gimmes are not permitted |
| Stroke Play | Yes | Every stroke counts towards the score |
| Match Play | No (if conceded) | A player can concede a stroke, no need to putt |
Note: The table reflects general practices and may differ based on local rules or agreements among players.
Understanding Gimmes
- Casual Rounds: Gimmes are common in friendly games to speed up play and avoid the formalities of tapping in short putts.
- Tournaments: In formal play, gimmes are not recognized, and each putt must be played to completion.
Bullet Points: Key Points About Gimmes
- Social Etiquette: Gimmes are a gesture of sportsmanship, assuming the putt is easily makeable.
- Scorecard Impact: In casual rounds, gimmes won’t add to your stroke count on the scorecard.
- Match Play Concessions: In match play, a putt can be conceded as a strategic move, but that’s an exception.
Insider Tip
- Clear Agreement: Always ensure there’s a clear agreement among players about gimmes to avoid disputes.
Conclusion
Gimmes can be a friendly part of casual golf but remember they’re not part of the official rules in stroke play. Know the context of your game, and when in doubt, putt it out to ensure your stroke count is beyond question.