Golf Handicap

Understanding the Golf Handicap

Many amateur golfers compete against each other on a daily basis. Even if they have different playing abilities, there is a system that allows them to compete against each other. The Golf Handicap system creates a level playing field between golfers of all abilities.

What is a Handicap

The USGA (United States Golf Association) introduced the golf handicap system in the early 1900's.  The purpose was to attempt to allow players of all abilities to play against each other and to create a level playing field.   The Handicap system makes it possible for a very good golfer to compete against an average golfer and even has allowances for men competing against women and Seniors competing with young adults.

The Handicap System issues "Strokes" to the weaker golfer depending on their average score.  The weaker player is allowed to deduct strokes from their score and at the end of the round, that score is then compared to the better golfer to determine the "net" winner.  The Net Score is the gross score less any handicap strokes that the USGA determines that the golfer gets based on a unique formula.

The handicap formula is based on the difficulty of the course and the score that the better golfers would shoot if they played on the course.  The better golfers are considered to be "scratch golfers", that is, they play the course at the score that the designer expected to be the score to be.  Many courses are a par 72, meaning that it takes 72 strokes to play the course. 

How is the Handicap Determined

Every golfer that is issued a USGA handicap must follow some basic rules and post all of their scores in computers that are available at their golf courses.  When they finish the round of golf, they add up their score and input that score in their scoring record. Every two weeks or so, the handicap system looks at those scores and takes the best 10 scores of the last 20 scores and takes 80% of the average scores to determine the handicap for that player.  Adjustments are made for players that have really bad holes. Since those are not characteristic of a players scores, there are certain guidelines that allow for individual hole scores to be adjusted. This is called Equitable Stroke Control.  A player can also have manual adjustments if they are injured or if they are improving faster than the system works or if they play much better in tournaments than they play in regular play.

Each golf club should have a Handicap Chairman and Handicap Committee who shall oversee their club and make sure that the handicap system is being used properly.  A handicap committee has the right to look at an individual handicap and adjust it if they feel that it is not appropriate.

Peer Review

Golf is a game of honor and it is up to the individual golfers to play by the rules and report and post all of their scores to the handicap program.  However, golf does allow for something that is called Peer Review. Peer Review means that all of your golf scores are public and can be examined by other players.  Generally, club members are very aware of course handicaps and know when a player has played an exceptional score. In many golf clubs, the handicap computer is available right in a public viewing area and it is possible to check on any player at that club.  It is important to have an accurate handicap so that players of all abilities can compete against one another.

How To Get a Handicap

The best way to get a USGA handicap is to inquire at your local golf course. They can put you in touch with a local club or organization that issues handicaps to their members. You can also inquire with your state golf association or you can call the USGA directly.

I've tried to give you a general overview of what a handicap is and how it is used.  The USGA (United States Golf Association) has much more information and would be glad to help you with any questions you have.

Good Luck and enjoy the Game!