5 Things to Know about the World Handicap System
The Handicap Index Calculation is changing
Your number will be based off your 8 best scores out of the past 20. For most US golfers the change will be minor, but you may see that your Handicap Index is different in January, despite not having played!
A 9-hole Handicap Index is now an 18-hole Handicap Index.
A Handicap Index will be issued to a player after three 18-hole score (six 9-hole scores) are submitted.
You will now have a Playing Handicap
Slope Rating and now Course Rating and Par will be used to determine your Playing Handicap, allowing players to compete from different tees more easily.
Net Double Bogey will replace ESC (Equitable Stroke Control)
The maximum hole score for handicap purposes will be limited to Net Double Bogey.
How to calculate your Maximum Score per Hole
The easiest way to calculate this is by inputting your hole by hole score into the system and it will calculate it for you.
If you have a 36 Handicap you will get 2 Strokes on each hole, which will mean that if the hole is a Par 4 your maximum on each hole would be:
4 +2 +2 = 8 is your NET DOUBLE BOGEY.
Par of hole + 2 Strokes + Handicap Stroke allowed
Net double Bogey calculation example
If you have a CH higher than a 54 you will receive par +5 for handicap purposes.
To keep the game moving pick up your ball when you have reached your maximum!!
You will have responsive Handicap Index updates
Your handicap index will update the day after you post a score. Posting your score hole by hole is highly recommended.
Safeguards have been added to protect your Handicap Index
The system will account for abnormal playing conditions, limit extreme upward movement of a Handicap Index and reduce a Handicap Index when an exceptional score is posted.
updated 3/18/20