Golfer Education

WHS
World Handicap System

 Beginning in 2020, the WHS unifies six different handicap systems that were used around the world into a single system that:

• Enables golfers of different abilities to play and compete on a fair basis, in any format, on any course, anywhere around the world;

• Is easy to understand and implement, without sacrificing accuracy; and

• Meets the varied needs and expectations of golfers, golf clubs and golf authorities all around the world and is adaptable to suit all golfing cultures.

The WHS is jointly governed worldwide by the USGA and The R&A and encompasses both the Rules of Handicapping and the Course Rating System (formerly the USGA Course Rating and Slope System). Click here for the Key Changes.

Handicap Allowances and Calculations

The WHS has changed the way your handicap index is calculated. Additionally, Handicap Allowances for golf formats have been adjusted. Click here to view the WTDGA fact sheet on all changes.

Handicap Index and Course Handicap

What is a Handicap Index?

A Handicap Index is a number used to represent your potential scoring ability, which is always expressed as a number taken to one decimal place (e.g. 10.4). This number is used to calculate how many strokes you would potentially need to adjust your score back to par, and allows golfers of all skill levels to compete on an even playing field. For example, if you have a Handicap Index of 21.3, it means you generally shoot about 21 strokes over par on an average course.

However, your number of strokes will vary depending on the par and rating of the course and set of tees that you play, otherwise known as the Course Handicap. Once you know the Course Handicap for the course and set of tees you’re playing, you can take your gross score (what you actually shot) and subtract the Course Handicap to get your net score. In WTDGA tournaments we take a percentage of your course handicap (e.g., 95% for singles events or 85% for some team events). The result is your Playing Handicap (PH).

How do I determine my Course Handicap?

The GHIN mobile app has a handy Course Handicap Calculator (or you can use the USGA website) where you can find your Course Handicap using your Handicap Index and entering the course and set of tees you’re playing.

To Post or Not to Post….

To settle the question of whether to post your latest round here is an article about golf formats and if they are considered an acceptable round by the USGA.

Click Here