A Golf Order of Merit is a ranking system used to assess and reward the performance of golfers over a series of tournaments or events, typically over a season or a calendar year. It's a common format in golf societies, professional tours, and clubs to track consistent performance and crown an overall champion.
How a Golf Order of Merit Works
- Point System:
Points are awarded to golfers based on their performance in individual tournaments or matches. Players accumulate points throughout the season, and the golfer with the most points at the end of the season is declared the Order of Merit champion.
- Tournaments:
The Order of Merit usually includes a series of pre-determined tournaments, typically organized by a golf society, club, or professional tour. The number of tournaments can vary depending on the scope of the competition.
- Rankings:
Players are ranked based on their cumulative points over the season. The rankings are updated after each tournament, reflecting the players’ ongoing standings.
Structure of an Order of Merit
1. Points Allocation
Points are typically awarded based on the finishing position in each tournament. Common formats include:
- Winner's Points: The golfer who wins a tournament receives the highest number of points (e.g., 100 points).
- Runner-up Points: Points for other positions decrease incrementally (e.g., 75 points for 2nd, 60 for 3rd, etc.).
- Participation Points: Some systems reward participation, ensuring that even those who finish lower still earn points for competing.