Bingo Bango Bongo: Guide to This Unique Golf Game

Bingo Bango Bongo is all about being first. This points-based game can be played with two or more golfers who compete for three points on each hole (a total of 54 points are up for grabs during a round). Golfers decide on the wager for each point before the round starts, typically $1 per point. It’s best to have one designated scorekeeper for the group to avoid confusion.

The points available on each hole are:

• Bingo Point – The bingo point is awarded to the first golfer to land their ball on the green.
• Bango Point – Once all golfers hit onto the green, the bango point goes to the golfer whose ball is closest to the pin.
• Bongo Point – The first golfer to hole his ball earns the bongo point.

Golf etiquette is an important part of Bingo Bango Bongo. During regular rounds, golfers will often hit out of turn to speed up play or to clear the line on gimme putts. Given the “first gets the point” format of Bingo Bango Bongo the golfer farthest from the hole should always hit first. On a short par-4 hole, the golfer with the shortest drive will have the first crack at reaching the green and earning the bingo point.

While a golfer’s score on a hole doesn’t have a direct impact on the points system, it does determine the order the golfers tee off on the following hole. There is a huge advantage for the golfer teeing off first on par-3s to reach the green before the rest of the group.

One variation on scoring doubles the points when a golfer sweeps the bingo, bango and bongo on one hole. That golfer would then score six points instead of three. Another version adds one additional point for a hole sweep.

Other versions allow the last-place golfer to press on one or more holes so points are worth double or even triple on one hole.

It’s easy to customize Bingo Bango Bongo for your group. Consider adding a point for the best score on each hole.

There are some strategies to consider when playing Bingo Bango Bongo. On par-4 holes, you might want to lay off your drive a little if you think you can still reach the green with your second shot. Remember, the bingo point is for first ball on the green and if you bomb your drive past everyone, you’ll be hitting your approach shot last.

If you have already lost the bingo point because another golfer is already on the green, go for the bango point and shoot for the pin.

On long putts for the bongo point, go for the hole. Playing it safe might prevent a three-putt but it could cost you a point.

Since order of play must be strictly followed, your round will likely take longer than usual. Some golfers prefer not to play Bingo Bango Bongo because of the slow pace of play.

Playing the game can have a negative effect on your score. If winning points is your main goal for the day, you may take more chances that result in more strokes.

Bingo Bango Bongo is a fun golf betting game that can really add excitement to a round. Since the game can change strategy, it probably won’t be one your group plays every time on the course.

Adapted from Getty Images