What’s the difference between ACBL stratified pairs and flighted pairs?
In both formats, pairs are grouped based on the combined number of ACBL Masterpoints they hold — but how those groups are handled is very different.
🔹 Stratified Pairs (the usual format in Speedballs and Open Pairs)
In stratified games, all pairs play in the same field but are grouped into three strata (A, B, and C) based on masterpoints. The sections are balanced so that each includes a mix of A, B, and C players — meaning you’ll play against pairs of all levels.
Masterpoints are awarded within each stratum:
- All pairs are eligible for A stratum awards
- B and C pairs are also eligible for B stratum awards
- C pairs additionally compete for C stratum awards
This gives lower-ranked players more opportunities to earn points while still playing in a larger, mixed field.
🔹 Flighted Pairs
In flighted games, pairs are also split into three groups (Flights A, B, and C) based on masterpoints. But unlike stratified games, each flight plays separately, with its own section and results:
- Flight A plays only against other Flight A pairs
- Flight B vs Flight B
- Flight C vs Flight C
Each flight is effectively a standalone game, and scores are compared only within that flight.
Masterpoint awards:
- Flight A awards are based on the total number of participants in all flights
- Flights B and C earn awards based only on the number of players in their own flight
This structure makes it easier for players in Flights B and C to place well, since they’re only competing against others with similar experience.
🛈 Note: Because of the way awards are calculated, flighted games may offer slightly fewer masterpoints than stratified ones.