Green on 19
Individual points

How to Play Quota / Chicago

Also called: Chicago · Quota · Thirty-Six

Quota, often called Chicago, gives each golfer a target commonly based on 36 minus handicap. Players earn points for bogey or better and the golfer finishing furthest above the assigned quota wins.

Best for

Mixed-handicap groups, leagues and larger outings that want every golfer competing against a personal target.

Handicaps

Built into the target. Verify the group's quota formula because point tables and handicap conventions vary.

The clean version

Quota / Chicago Rules

  1. 1

    Set each player's quota using the group's agreed handicap formula, commonly 36 minus handicap.

  2. 2

    Award points by result; a common table is bogey 1, par 2, birdie 4 and eagle 8.

  3. 3

    Total the points across 18 holes.

  4. 4

    Subtract each player's quota from the points earned.

  5. 5

    The highest plus number, or the smallest shortfall, wins.

Before the first tee

Set Up the Game

  • Publish the quota formula
  • Publish the points table
  • Choose 9 or 18 holes
  • Set a fixed pool or amount per quota point

Worked example

How the Scoring Works

A 10-handicap golfer starts with a quota of 26. If that golfer earns 29 points, the result is +3. A 4-handicap golfer who earns 31 against a quota of 32 finishes −1.

Mix it carefully

Can Quota / Chicago Be Played With Other Games?

Quota is a full-round individual contest, leaving room for simple hole and event overlays.

Best complementary games

SkinsRead the companion guideDots / JunkRead the companion guideSnakeRead the companion guide

House-rule territory

Popular Variations

  • Start from 39 instead of 36
  • Award 6 rather than 8 for eagle
  • Use negative starting points
  • Team quota totals

Play smarter

Strategy Without the Spreadsheet

  • Target the score values that move the points table most efficiently.
  • Pick up when a hole can no longer earn points if the local format permits it.
  • Compare performance to quota, not raw points, during the round.

Quick answers

Quota / Chicago FAQ

Are Chicago and Quota the same game?

They are often used as alternate names, though local point tables and starting formulas can differ.

What is a good number of players for Quota?

It works with a single group, but it is especially useful for 4 to 12 players or a league field.

Can a player pick up in Quota?

Often yes once no point-earning score is possible, but the player still needs an acceptable score for any separate handicap posting requirement.