I must admit I have never really heard of/seen them before today. I came across a course directory that has information on whether or not the course allows fivesomes. Some of the sites say that fivesomes are allowed based on the management's discretion.

My question is, what is the benefit of a fivesome? Is this something that is catching on to get more people on the course or simply to accomodate a larger group? Anyone see them on local courses?