East Kent League Knockout Cup 2026

  1. Format to be 2 scratch matches and 3 handicap matches (max handicap 8)

  2. Format is 4-ball betterball.

  3. The host Club provides their team sheet of pairings and their order of play to the visiting Captain via the Team Sheets supplied on the website.

  4. If any Cup fixture is called off due to course closure then it should be rescheduled before the Deadline. If this is not possible please discuss with Simon Hooper.

  5. Both Captains to nominate a pair to play sudden death play-off, in the event of a drawn game – this will be played off scratch. They do not need to have played together already.

  6. If a team is 1 player short, then a single player must play in the final match.  If a team is 2 players short then the first 4 matches will be played and the final match conceded. If a team turns up with less than 8 players then all matches are forfeited.

  7. The draw was completed fairly and all fixtures presented on the website.

  8. Handicap matches will use Course Handicap full difference from the lowest handicap.

    In Four-Ball match play, Lowest Handicap will play off zero (0) strokes, next lowest would receive 90% of the difference in Course Handicap from lowest and so on.

  9. Ladies may play but must play off the same tees as the Men.

  10. Clubs are to split the cost of food.

  11. All players must adhere to general golf dress rules. Collar and tie may be required at some clubs – captains to advise visitors if applicable.

  12. If unable to agree a mutual date the following system to be used:

    • Home side to offer 3 dates, at least 1 of which must be a weekend

    • Dates offered must avoid clashes with League, Guilford Trophy or Kent Foursomes matches

  13. The match results must be notified to Simon Hooper via WhatsApp by 9.00pm on the day that a match was played.

  14. It was agreed at the AGM that the new FEKL teams would be permitted into the Knockout Cup.

  15. Professional Golfers are not permitted to play in the EKL.

  16. Buggies are permitted if required due to medical requirements. Please inform the opposing captain with plenty of notice.

  17. Non‑Playing Members & Captains on the Course

    • Any league member who is present on the course during an active match, whether they are a Captain, team representative, or simply not playing that day must not offer any advice to players regarding club selection, shot choices, or course strategy. Their role on the course is strictly observational and social and must not influence the outcome of play in any way.

    • League Etiquette and Respect: We are a gentlemen’s league, and all participants are expected to conduct themselves accordingly. Complaints about a non‑playing member’s presence or behaviour will only be considered if there is a serious breach of this rule or of general etiquette.

    • Failure to Follow This Rule: If a non‑playing member is found to be offering advice or interfering with play, they may be asked not to return to the course during active matches for the remainder of the season. This allows us to maintain fairness, uphold the spirit of the game, and ensure that the league continues to operate in a respectful and sportsmanlike manner.

  18. Deadlines

  • First Round - To be played no later than Sunday 19/04

  • Second Round - To be played no later than Sunday 21/06

  • Quarter Final - To be played no later than 09/08

  • Semi Final - To be played no later than 20/09

  • Final (Hosted by Chestfield) - To be played 10/10