The Ultimate Beers & Bogeys Mulligan Rule
Every great golf trip needs its traditions, and for us, that’s the Shotgun Mulligan. It’s not just a rule—it’s a mindset that defines the laid-back, laugh-filled spirit of the Beers & Bogeys trip. If you’re wondering what it’s all about and why it’s become a cornerstone of our annual golf getaway, keep reading.
How the Shotgun Mulligan Rule Started
My first experience with the Shotgun Mulligan was back in 2018. I was invited to join a golf trip at the last minute, and it was my first time being part of something like this. The group had already implemented the Shotgun Mulligan rule, and it was an absolute hit. The lighthearted vibe and ensuing laughs made a big impression on me.
Fast forward a few years to 2022, when I planned the first-ever Beers & Bogeys trip. I knew I had to bring this rule along. It’s been a staple of our trip ever since, growing in popularity and cementing its place as a defining feature of our annual tradition.
Official Rules for a Shotgun Mulligan
The Shotgun Mulligan is simple but comes with a few important rules:
- You must shotgun the beer before taking your shot.
- You must take your shot immediately after shotgunning the beer.
- Once you use a Shotgun Mulligan and hit your shot, you must now play that shot—your original shot is no longer in play.
Over the years, we’ve also introduced a few refinements to keep things fair and fun:
- Limitations: Initially, there were no limits on the number of mulligans, but after some players used two, three, or even four on a single hole, slow play became an issue. Starting this year, we’ll limit it to one Shotgun Mulligan per person (or per team, in team formats) per hole.
- Non-Drinkers: For players who don’t drink alcohol, we’ve introduced alternatives like doing 20 pushups or even shotgunning a Coke. It’s all about keeping things inclusive and fun for everyone.
Memorable Moments
There’s no shortage of legendary stories involving the Shotgun Mulligan, but one stands out from last year. During a 9-hole best ball match, my partner hit a poor tee shot on a par three—a downhill, 175-yard shot over water. He pulled it left into long grass, making it nearly impossible to recover. I had already hit my ball into a bunker short of the green.
We agreed he should use a Shotgun Mulligan, and after quickly downing a beer, he stepped up and nailed the shot to two feet of the pin. It was an easy tap-in birdie that won us the hole and ultimately helped us clinch the match. The celebration after that shot was unforgettable—pure joy and laughter all around.
Why the Shotgun Mulligan is a Staple
The Shotgun Mulligan has become more than just a rule—it’s a tradition that embodies the essence of Beers & Bogeys. Our group is competitive, whether playing for a team win or the individual title, but we’re all about having a good time. As golfers, we all hit bad shots, and this rule is the perfect way to keep the pressure low and the laughter high.
Shotgun Mulligans remind us that this isn’t just another golf tournament. It’s about making memories, sharing laughs, and enjoying the game with your friends. Even if your score isn’t great, after a few Shotgun Mulligans, you’re probably feeling pretty good and having a blast anyway.
Advice for Adding a Rule Like This to Your Game
If you’re thinking about adding a fun rule like the Shotgun Mulligan to your own golf trip or regular rounds, here’s my advice: Do it! Don’t be afraid to experiment, and feel free to put limitations in place if needed to keep things fair and fun.
One of the coolest things about this rule is the strategy it brings. Using a Shotgun Mulligan at the right moment can be a game-changer, helping you or your team secure a crucial win. On the flip side, overusing them can backfire—your swing might go out the window after a few too many beers, leaving you struggling for the rest of the round. Finding that balance is part of the fun.
Final Thoughts
The Shotgun Mulligan isn’t just a rule—it’s a mindset that turns a typical round of golf into something truly memorable. Whether it’s your first time playing with this rule or you’re a seasoned Beers & Bogeys veteran, it’s all about having fun, sharing laughs, and embracing the spirit of the game.
What about you? Do you have a unique rule or tradition that makes your golf rounds or trips special? Share it in the comments below—I’d love to hear about it!
