Advantage GC is a simple way for players of differing abilities to play each other using level play rules and with each having an equal chance of winning. Players will start the game with a score of 0:0, but stronger players will need to score more hoops than weaker players.
The game ends when one side reaches its target score.
Hoops are played in the same order as usual for a 13-point game; after hoop 12 the cycle of hoops 3, 4, 1, 2, 11, 12 can be repeated as often as required. If the score reaches 6:6 play continues with the deciding hoop being the next hoop in order.
DOUBLES PLAY
A doubles game can be played by calculating the mean handicap for each team (half the sum of the two handicaps) with halves rounded up. The starting score for each team can then be obtained from the table using the mean handicaps.
USE OF 2026 TABLE OF TARGET SCORES
Players should reference the table below using their handicap.
The Target score for a game is found at the intersection of the corresponding column (stronger player) and row (weaker player) and is listed as Stronger : Weaker.
For example, a game involving players with a handicap of 12 and 7 would result in the stronger player having a target of 8 and the weaker a target of 6. Therefore, to win, the stronger player would need to run eight hoops and the weaker just six.
For full details, see Croquet England website