What is pitch and putt?
The pitch and putt takes its name from the two shots played there: the pitch, a pitch shot that sends the ball soaring toward the green, and the putt, which carries it all the way to the hole. The holes are so short that you can reach them in a single shot, using a wedge or a short iron.
The French Golf Federation defines it as a 9- or 18-hole course with holes less than 100 yards long, which it describes as very popular with beginners and younger players. It is also written as “pitch & putt.”.
What are the rules of pitch and putt?
The Rules of Golf apply, with a few limitations specific to this format, as established by the international pitch-and-putt federations:
| Rule | Pitch and Putt |
|---|---|
| Length of a hole | 100 yards at most |
| Length of an 18-hole course | A maximum of 1,310 yards |
| Number of clubs | A maximum of 3, including one putter |
| By | 3 per hole, for a total of 54 over 18 holes |
| Other Rules | The golf governing bodies (R&A and USGA) |
In France, the FFGolf French Team Pitch and Putt Championship also enforces a limit of three clubs, including the putter.
Pitch and putt or compact golf: What's the difference?
- Pitch and Putt: Only very short holes—less than 100 yards—and three clubs. The game comes down to short game and putting.
- Compact Golf: longer holes—usually par 3s and par 4s—on a 9- or 18-hole course. You use a wider variety of clubs and hit real iron shots—and sometimes woods—without the distance of a full-length course.
In common usage, the term “pitch and putt” is sometimes applied to any small course with short holes. If you’re looking for a specific course format, check the hole lengths listed on the scorecard.
Who is pitch and putt for?
- For Beginners: You get to try out the game on a real course, without the pressure of long shots or the risk of losing a lot of balls.
- To the children: The distances are manageable, and the games remain short.
- For experienced players who want to work on their short game: each hole consists of an approach shot followed by one or two putts—exactly the kind of shots that make the difference on a long course.
- For those who are short on time: A round is played much faster than on a traditional course.
Which clubs should I bring?
With a maximum of three clubs, the choice is easy: one putter and two approach clubs, such as a pitching wedge for the longest holes and a sand wedge for shorter shots or for bunker shots. Some players prefer a 9-iron for holes that are around 100 yards long.
How Can You Improve Your Game Through Pitch and Putt?
- Work on your speed control: At these distances, you rarely take a full swing. Learning to adjust the length of your swing is the key.
- Choose a place to stay on the green rather than just aiming for the flag.
- Count your putts: The score is often decided on the green.
- Aim for the par: A score of 54 over 18 holes is a challenging goal, even for a good player.
Video Lessons to Improve Your Short Game
Related sections
Guides to Read
Related terms
Frequently Asked Questions: Pitch and Putt
How many clubs can you use at a pitch-and-putt course?
A maximum of three, including one putter. This is the rule set by international pitch-and-putt federations, which is also applied to the FFGolf French Team Championship.
How long are the holes at the pitch-and-putt course?
Each hole is no more than 100 yards long, and an 18-hole course is no longer than 1,310 yards in total.
What is the difference between a pitch-and-putt course and a compact golf course?
Pitch and putt consists solely of very short holes—less than 100 yards—played with three clubs. Compact golf features longer holes, typically par 3s and par 4s, where more clubs are used.
What is the par for a pitch-and-putt course?
Each hole is a par 3; therefore, the par is 27 for 9 holes and 54 for 18 holes.