While I have read a decent amount about these events, I am still not 100% sure on the details of them. If someone could enlighten a newbie I would greatly appreciate it. Also, what level of golfer usually participates in these?
Thank you in advance,
Dan Chapman
Dan,
What kind of details would you like? At a high level, look for postings about upcoming Dixie Cup (Southeast US), King's Putter Cup (California), or Buda Cup (British Isles)
The events (at least the ones in the states) are set up loosely like a Ryder Cup format with some team matches and some individual matches. Everyone likes to win, but no one gets too hung up on the competition. We play whatever courses the organizer sets up, we meet great guys, have dinner, have drinks, etc. EVERYONE has a great time. I've never seen anyone walking away from one of these events pissed off that they showed up.
I just started going last fall. I was a little hesitant at first because it seems overwhelming to show up somewhere and play golf with 30 guys you've never met. After you attend your first one, you never have to worry about that - you'll always know someone at the next one. Even if you don't you won't care because most of these guys are so easy to get along with.
Now that I've been to one Dixie Cup and one KPC, I can't wait to get to another. Last week was an absolute blast.
As to level of golfer, I think we had everything from scratch or slightly better on up to 20+ handicaps. Unless you are Tiger Woods or a 40 handicapper, there will probably be others of similar ability. Regardless of ability, there will be others with whom you will get along famously.