Do I need to have a USGA handicap to join?

No - B.A.G.S will provide you with a provisional handicap so you can begin competing at your first event. When you have enough rounds (5-9 scores) to obtain a handicap through your B.A.G.S.' tournament rounds and your outside rounds that have been submitted, you will receive an official B.A.G.S.' USGA handicap index. An MGA-GHIN handicap is also available for a one-time charge of $30. After the first year, it will come free with your annual membership renewal.

How much are the entry fees for each event?

The entry fee for each event varies from $45 to over $100, depending on the course being played and if ride carts are included in the entry fee. The entry fee includes golf course charges, B.A.G.S. prize fund, nearest to hole contests, and tournament administration. Motor carts are not included in the entry fee, unless the course requires carts as a part of their outing policy. 

How many members are in B.A.G.S. - Boston Division, and how many players play in each event?

For the last several years the Boston Division has maintained a membership of about 335 members. Our average field size is about 56 players for weekend events, and 40 players for weekday events.  About 20% of our events are combined with other (MA & CT) B.A.G.S. divisions, which increases the field size and the prize fund.

Am I required to play in a certain number of events?

There are no minimum or maximum # of events - you may play in as few or as many as suit your schedule.  You may also play in events staged by our other (MA. & CT. ) divisions.

Do I need to have a foursome to enter an event?

You may enter an event with other members or as a single.  You will be paired with other members of similar ability to make up a foursome.

May I request to be paired with certain players ?

Yes - many members enter as a single, and quickly meet other members, and then request to be paired with their new golfing friends when they enter an event.

Are Women and juniors allowed to join?

We welcome lady members. The women play off the ladies' tees and compete against the men with an appropriate handicap adjustment.  Juniors, age 16 or older, are also welcomed to join for a reduced membership fee.

I am a beginner - is B.A.G.S. right for me?

The maximum handicap allowable is 36 for men and 40 for ladies.  You should be capable of shooting better than 110 on a regulation golf course to be able to win something in the tournament prize fund.  Members should also be familiar with the rules of golf and golf etiquette and be able to play 18 holes in less than 5 hours.

How do I obtain my tee time?

Tee times and pairings are prepared the day before each event and posted on our website and on our voice message recording. You will not be dealing directly with the golf courses. Members are requested to arrive at the course at least 30 minutes prior to their assigned tee time.

Are all your tournaments played off the longest tees?

Not usually - Most events consist of two divisions - "A" division players (typically those with handicaps of 15 or less) will usually play off the tees that are equivalent to a par 72 course length of 6,300 - 6,800 yards.  Net "B" players (typically those with handicaps greater than 15) will usually play off the tees that are equivalent to a par 72 course length of 6,100 - 6,500 yards.  The tee selection for each event also depends on the weather, and the particular course set up. 

No. B.A.G.S. events comply with the rules of amateur golf. Amateurs are not allowed to win cash paid out of an entry fee, but are allowed to make optional cash bets on the side. B.A.G.S. tournament winnings are paid in the form of credit vouchers to offset future entry fees and can not be converted to cash. Winnings from optional cash bets (such as sweeps, gross and net skins) are paid in cash.