Have you ever played in a tournament where the winner was a surprise, and the organizer only told everyone which holes “really counted” after the round? That was probably the Peoria system. It is a clever way to hand out fair handicaps on the spot, and it has a built-in element of mystery that players love.
This guide explains Peoria system golf in plain language. You will learn how the secret holes work, the formula, the differences between standard, new Peoria, and double Peoria system golf, plus a handicap chart, a Peoria system golf scorecard, and a simple Peoria golf scoring spreadsheet you can build yourself. We also answer a popular rules question: can a 20 handicap take a triple bogey?
What Is the Peoria System in Golf?
The Peoria system is a one-day handicap method for stroke play events. Before the round, the committee secretly picks a set of holes. Players do not know which ones. After everyone finishes, the holes are revealed, and each player’s scores on those holes are used in a formula to create a handicap for the day. That handicap is subtracted from the gross score to find the net score.
Because nobody knows which holes will count, players cannot “game” the system by scoring badly on purpose. A blow-up hole might not count at all, and an average hole might turn out to be a key one.
The name is widely linked to Peoria, Illinois, although the exact origin story is not well documented. The system is also known as the Peoria scoring system or Peoria handicap system, and it is popular at charity events, corporate outings, and club days where many players do not have an official handicap.
Important: A Peoria handicap is not an official handicap. It applies only to that day’s event and cannot be used to build a handicap index.
How the Peoria System Works: Step by Step
- Choose six secret holes before the round. A common mix is two par 3s, two par 4s, and two par 5s, with one of each type on the front nine and one on the back nine.
- Keep them secret. Seal the list in an envelope or hide it until play is finished.
- Play stroke play with a maximum score. The traditional limit is double par on every hole, so 6 on a par 3, 8 on a par 4, and 10 on a par 5.
- Reveal the holes after play. Each player adds their scores on the six secret holes.
- Multiply by 3. Six holes times three equals 18 holes, so this scales the total to a full round.
- Subtract the course par. This shows how far over par the player would be across 18 holes.
- Multiply by 80%. This is the standard reduction. Some events skip it, so check the rules.
- Round to the nearest whole number. That is the player’s Peoria handicap.
- Subtract the handicap from the gross score. The lowest net score wins.
The Peoria Formula in One Line
Peoria handicap = ((sum of the six secret hole scores × 3) − course par) × 0.80
A Worked Example
Jamie plays a par-72 course and shoots a gross 92. After the round, the secret holes are revealed. Jamie’s scores on those holes are 6, 5, 4, 7, 6, and 4.
- Total of the six holes: 6 + 5 + 4 + 7 + 6 + 4 = 32
- Multiply by 3: 32 × 3 = 96
- Subtract par: 96 − 72 = 24
- Apply 80%: 24 × 0.80 = 19.2, which rounds to 19
- Net score: 92 − 19 = 73
If another player had the same gross score but struggled on the secret holes, they would receive a bigger handicap and a lower net score. That is the spirit of the system: the holes you played poorly can help you.
Which Holes Should Be Secret Holes?
Good hole selection keeps results fair. These are the most common patterns:
- Standard mix: two par 3s, two par 4s, and two par 5s, with one of each type per nine.
- Modified mix: one par 3, four par 4s, and one par 5, often with two par 4s on each nine.
- Nine-hole rounds: choose three holes instead of six, and multiply by 3 for the standard version.
Pick holes that represent the course, avoid choosing only the easiest or hardest ones, and draw them at random if you can. Keep the list sealed until the very end.
New Peoria System Golf
The new Peoria system, often called Shin Peoria or New Peoria, is a variation that is popular in Japan and parts of Asia. Definitions vary a little between sources, but the common features are:
- Six secret holes are used, often one par 3, one par 5, and four par 4s, with par 4s split across the two nines.
- The score total is multiplied by 3 and par is subtracted.
- The 80% reduction is often skipped, so the full result becomes the handicap.
Because the rules differ by event, always check whether an organizer using “New Peoria” means a specific mix of holes and whether the 80% reduction applies.
New Peoria Example
Sasha shoots 98 on a par-72 course. On the six secret holes (one par 3, four par 4s, one par 5), Sasha scores a total of 33.
- 33 × 3 = 99
- 99 − 72 = 27, so the handicap is 27 (no 80% reduction)
- Net score: 98 − 27 = 71
Double Peoria System Golf
Double Peoria, sometimes called New-New Peoria, uses 12 secret holes instead of six. Using more holes gives a more stable result, because one lucky or unlucky hole matters less.
- The committee secretly selects 12 holes (or, in some events, selects six holes to ignore and uses the other 12).
- Players play with a double-par maximum.
- After play, add the scores on the 12 secret holes.
- Multiply by 1.5, because 12 holes times 1.5 equals 18 holes.
- Subtract the course par.
- The result is usually the handicap, with no 80% reduction.
Double Peoria formula: Handicap = (sum of the 12 secret hole scores × 1.5) − course par
Double Peoria Example
Mo shoots 95 on a par-72 course. The sum of Mo’s scores on the 12 secret holes is 62.
- 62 × 1.5 = 93
- 93 − 72 = 21, so the handicap is 21
- Net score: 95 − 21 = 74
Peoria Variations at a Glance
| Feature | Standard Peoria | New (Shin) Peoria | Double Peoria |
|---|---|---|---|
| Secret holes | 6 | 6 | 12 |
| Typical hole mix | 2 par 3s, 2 par 4s, 2 par 5s | 1 par 3, 4 par 4s, 1 par 5 | Any mix |
| Multiplier | × 3 | × 3 | × 1.5 |
| Subtract par | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 80% reduction | Yes | Often skipped | Usually skipped |
Because naming varies by region and event, publish the exact version on the rules sheet.
Peoria Golf Scoring Calculator and Handicap Charts
A quick chart helps players check their numbers. These charts assume a par-72 course.
Standard Peoria Handicap Chart (6 Holes, 80%)
| Total on 6 Secret Holes | Handicap Before 80% | Peoria Handicap |
|---|---|---|
| 24 | 0 | 0 |
| 26 | 6 | 5 |
| 28 | 12 | 10 |
| 30 | 18 | 14 |
| 32 | 24 | 19 |
| 34 | 30 | 24 |
| 36 | 36 | 29 |
| 38 | 42 | 34 |
| 40 | 48 | 38 |
Double Peoria Handicap Chart (12 Holes, No Reduction)
| Total on 12 Secret Holes | Double Peoria Handicap |
|---|---|
| 48 | 0 |
| 50 | 3 |
| 52 | 6 |
| 54 | 9 |
| 56 | 12 |
| 58 | 15 |
| 60 | 18 |
| 62 | 21 |
| 64 | 24 |
| 66 | 27 |
| 68 | 30 |
| 70 | 33 |
| 72 | 36 |
Each extra stroke on the 12 holes adds 1.5 strokes to the handicap. On a course with a different par, replace 72 in the formula with that course’s par.
Peoria System Golf Scorecard
A clear scorecard makes the Peoria system much easier for players and scorers. Here is a simple layout you can print or copy into your own template:
| Hole | Par | Score | Capped Score (Max 2 × Par) | Secret Hole? (Scorer Fills In) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4 | |||
| 2 | 5 | |||
| 3 | 3 | |||
| … | … | |||
| 18 | 4 |
Below the 18 holes, add these lines:
- Gross score (total of capped scores)
- Total of the secret holes
- Multiplier (× 3 or × 1.5)
- Course par
- Reduction (× 0.80 or none)
- Peoria handicap
- Net score
- Player and scorer initials
Add a printed line that says “Maximum score is double par on every hole” so players know when to pick up. For help reading a card, see how to read a golf scorecard.
Peoria Golf Scoring Spreadsheet
A spreadsheet takes the stress out of calculating results for a big field. Set it up like this:
- Create a hole table. Put hole numbers in column A, pars in column B, and a “secret” flag (Y or N) in column C.
- Add a row per player. Enter each player’s 18 scores across the row.
- Cap each score. For each hole, use a formula such as
=MIN(score, 2*par). - Add the gross. Sum the 18 capped scores.
- Add the secret hole total. Use
SUMPRODUCTto add only the capped scores where the flag is “Y”. - Calculate the handicap. For standard Peoria, use
=ROUND((secret_total*3 - course_par)*0.8, 0). For double Peoria, use=ROUND(secret_total*1.5 - course_par, 0). - Set a floor. If your rules do not allow negative handicaps, wrap the formula in
MAX(0, ...). - Calculate the net score. Subtract the handicap from the gross score.
- Sort the results. Use a tie-break column, such as lowest handicap or lowest gross.
Test your spreadsheet with a few sample cards before the event. For live updates, read how to make a golf leaderboard. Golf apps with tournament modes can also run Peoria scoring for you, but features change, so check the current app before relying on it.
Can a 20 Handicap Take a Triple Bogey?
Yes, and it depends on which rule you mean. The answer is slightly different for a Peoria event and for posting a score to an official handicap.
In a Peoria Event
The traditional limit is double par on each hole, so a triple bogey is usually allowed:
- On a par 3, a triple bogey is 6, which is exactly double par, so it counts.
- On a par 4, a triple bogey is 7, and the cap is 8, so it counts.
- On a par 5, a triple bogey is 8, and the cap is 10, so it counts.
Some organizers use double bogey as the maximum instead. In that case, a triple bogey would be reduced to a double bogey. Always read the rules sheet.
For an Official Handicap Score
Under the World Handicap System, the maximum hole score for handicap purposes is a net double bogey, which is par plus 2 plus any handicap strokes you receive on the hole. A golfer with a 20 Course Handicap gets one stroke on every hole, plus a second stroke on the two hardest holes. That means:
- On most holes, the maximum counted score is par + 2 + 1, which is a triple bogey.
- On the two hardest holes, the maximum counted score is par + 2 + 2, which is a quadruple bogey.
So a 20 handicap can usually count a triple bogey on most holes. To learn more, read what net double bogey is and what a course handicap is.
Peoria vs Callaway System
| Feature | Peoria System | Callaway System |
|---|---|---|
| Holes used | Secret holes chosen before play | Player’s own worst holes after play |
| Maximum score per hole | Double par (traditionally) | Double par |
| Can players game it? | Very hard, since holes are secret | Somewhat easier |
| Calculation | Simple formula | Table lookup |
| Best for | Large outings and fundraisers | Stroke play days with mixed fields |
For the full comparison, read our guide to the Callaway system in golf.
Peoria vs World Handicap System
The Peoria system is a quick tool for one event. The World Handicap System is a long-term record built from many rounds. Use Peoria when players do not have an official index. Use official handicaps when they do. To learn more, read about the golf handicap index, course handicap vs playing handicap, handicap allowance, how to keep score in golf with handicap, and how handicap differential is calculated.
Pros and Cons of the Peoria System
Advantages
- No handicap needed
- Secret holes make cheating very difficult
- Easy to explain and run
- Adds excitement, since the winner may not be known until the reveal
- Great for charity, corporate, and club events
Drawbacks
- Results are not official
- Handicaps can feel random if the chosen holes were unusual
- Players with a high score on the secret holes receive big handicaps, which can feel unfair to steady golfers
- The many variations can confuse players
- Needs a calculation step after the round
Tips for Organizers Running a Peoria Event
- Name the version. Say whether it is standard, new, or double Peoria.
- State the maximum score. Double par is traditional.
- Choose holes fairly. Use a balanced mix and draw them in front of a witness or at random.
- Seal the list. Keep it in an envelope until the scoring desk opens.
- Decide on the 80% reduction. Tell players if it applies.
- Set limits. Some events cap handicaps at a maximum and set a minimum of zero.
- Plan tie-breakers. Lowest handicap or lowest gross is common.
- Prepare the spreadsheet. Test it before the event.
- Hold the reveal at the meal. It builds excitement while scores are checked.
For more event help, read how to score a golf tournament, how to organize a golf tournament, how to run a golf tournament, how to set up a charity golf tournament, how golf tournament registration works, how to improve golf tournament organization, and our golf tournament management tips.
Peoria and Team Formats
Peoria is built for individual stroke play, but some events pair it with a shamble, where each player plays their own ball after the best drive is chosen. Because every player records their own score, Peoria can then work. Scrambles are different. They produce one team score, so a scramble allowance usually fits better. Read more in our guides to what a shamble in golf is, what a Texas scramble is, and golf best ball vs scramble.
Common Peoria Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to cap each hole at double par.
- Using the wrong multiplier (× 3 for six holes, × 1.5 for 12 holes).
- Applying the 80% reduction when the rules say not to, or the reverse.
- Choosing holes that are too easy or too hard.
- Revealing the secret holes before the round.
- Using the par of the wrong tee set.
- Treating the Peoria handicap as an official handicap.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Peoria system in golf?
It is a one-day handicap method that uses secretly chosen holes. After the round, the scores on those holes are put into a formula to create a handicap, which is subtracted from the gross score.
How do you calculate the Peoria system?
Add the scores on the six secret holes, multiply by 3, subtract the course par, multiply by 80%, and round. Subtract that handicap from the gross score.
What is the double Peoria system?
It uses 12 secret holes instead of six. The total is multiplied by 1.5, and par is subtracted. The 80% reduction is usually not used.
What is the new Peoria system?
New (Shin) Peoria is a variation popular in parts of Asia. It commonly uses six secret holes with a specific mix of pars and often skips the 80% reduction. Rules vary, so check the event details.
Can a 20 handicap take a triple bogey?
Yes. In a typical Peoria event with a double-par cap, a triple bogey counts on any hole. For an official handicap score, a 20 handicap usually counts up to a triple bogey on most holes under net double bogey.
Why are the holes secret?
Secrecy stops players from making a few holes artificially bad to boost their handicap. Nobody knows which scores will count.
Can I use the Peoria system for 9 holes?
Yes. Choose three secret holes and multiply their total by 3 for the standard version. Subtract the nine-hole par rather than the 18-hole par, and announce this rule beforehand.
Do I need an official handicap to play in a Peoria event?
No. That is one of its main benefits. It creates a handicap from the round itself.
Is a Peoria score used for my handicap index?
No. The Peoria handicap is only for that event. Check your local rules about posting the score, since the double-par cap differs from the net double bogey cap used for official handicaps.
What happens if two players tie on net score?
Rules vary. Common options are the lower handicap, the lower gross score, or a countback. Announce your tie-breaker in advance.
Is the Peoria system fair?
It is a reasonable method for one-day events, though no one-day system is perfect. Using more secret holes (double Peoria) tends to reduce luck.
Final Thoughts
The Peoria system is a clever and simple way to make a golf day fair for everyone, even when nobody has an official handicap. Choose your secret holes, cap scores at double par, reveal the holes after play, and run the numbers. Pick the version that suits your event, whether that is standard, new, or double Peoria, and share the rules clearly.
With a printed scorecard and a tested spreadsheet, your results will be quick and accurate, and the reveal will add a little drama to the awards. For more event ideas, explore our guides on different types of golf tournament formats, golf league formats, the better ball golf format, what a Chapman format in golf is, and what a Nassau in golf is. New to the game? Start with the basic rules of golf for beginners.