I am putting together a small event this weekend, and as a part of it we are going to play a 9 hole foursome match (alternate shot)

Foursomes are covered by rule 29 which says:
In a threesome or a foursome, during any stipulated round the Partners must play alternately from the teeing grounds and alternately during the play of each hole. Penalty strokes do not affect the order of play.

I interpret this rule to mean that one partner tees off on the odd number holes and one on the even number holes (play alternately from the teeing grounds). However, I believe I have seen other people play where whoever holes out, the other partner tees off.

Which is correct?

The 1st way (odd/even) is how they do it in the Ryder Cup, Presidents Cup, etc. So while I don't know if the other way is technically against the rules of golf, it's certainly not the preferred way.

Thanks.

Penalty strokes do not affect the order of play?

What if player A tees off and hits it out of bounds? Does he re-tee, or does player B hit next?

This was the easiest question to ask, we all know how convoluted the rules of golf are. And I don't know the answer, that's why I'm asking.

Mark,

If Player A hits it out of bounds, Player B hits the next shot. Even if it is a provisional ball, player B hits it.

And you are correct that penalty strokes do not impact the order of play.

Well let me ask you this; if Player A hits it out, STROKE 1. STROKE 2 is back in bounds, then would not STROKE 3 be back on player A? Same as hitting into the water 1 in, 2 out, hitting 3. The second stroke would belong to Player B.

Just playing devils advocate.

Alternate shot, not alternate stroke.

Mark,

Go to USGA.org and click on the rules section. Rule 29 covers foursomes, but does not provide a ton of guidance. However, on the lower right side of the page you will see "decisions." This specific issue is covered there.

And just for the record, since Player B is going to play the next shot, Player B drops the ball (assuming the shot is not from the tee).

[This message has been edited by Big Shoulders (edited 10/19/2011 4:03p).]

Thanks y'all.

Big Shoulders, per your original question, as noted in a post earlier, the players will alternate playing from the tee. The Ryder Cup method mentioned earlier is the correct way per the Rules of Golf.