As if having Handicap Index isn’t enough there is something called a Course Handicap™.  If you aren’t familiar with this term, how it works, or why it is important you are definitely in the right place!

 

Official Definition:  A “Course Handicap” is the USGA’s mark that indicates the number of handicap strokes a player receives from a specific set of tees at the course being played to adjust the player’s scoring ability to the level of scratch or zero-handicap golf. For a player with a plus Course Handicap, it is the number of handicap strokes a player gives to adjust the player’s scoring ability to the level of scratch or zero-handicap golf. A Course Handicap is determined by applying the player’s Handicap Index to a Course Handicap Table or Course Handicap Formula.  A player’s Course Handicap is expressed as a whole number. The result of any conditions of the competition, handicap allowance, or competition from a different USGA Course Rating that changes a Course Handicap is considered to be the Course Handicap.*

 

In Layman’s terms:  A Course Handicap™ is the number of strokes a golfer receives on a particular golf course being played from particular tees.  This will adjust an individual golfer’s Handicap Index to a zero-handicap (scratch golfer) so that you can create an equitable match between one ore more golfers of differing skill levels and from differing tee locations.

 

If you’re feeling like a smarty pants mathematician you can get your Course Handicap™ with this calculation:

(Handicap Index   X  Slope Rating) / 113

 

Your Handicap Index is what you find when you log into the GHIN system.  The Slope Rating can be found at the USGA site HERE but for a Southern California only list you can go direct to the SCGA’s site HERE.  Be sure you pick the right tees including whether you are male or female.  The 113 is standard difficulty rating.

 

Want to eliminate any math you’ll need to do?  The USGA has a calculator (below is a snapshot) and directory right at your fingertips.  You can access this anytime by clicking HERE.

 

…now the goods.  If you’re playing in a hosted competition the tournament officials will take care of calculating your Course Handicap™ for you and will provide you with a scorecard marked with the “pops” (or strokes) you’ll receive.  If it’s just a competition between friends and you want to keep it fair be sure to play with your Course Handicap™ or it’s truly not an equitable match up.

 

Still need help?  Let us know!  We’re always available to help!

 

*Reference: http://www.usga.org/Handicapping/handicap-manual.html#!rule-14370

 

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