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Golf Handicap Rules: A Guide to How they Work

The handicap system is essential to the game of golf. It has been used for decades as a way to determine the ability of players, and it allows amateur players to compete more equally against each other.

Here is a guide to how the handicapping system works as well as why it is so important if you want to take your golf more seriously.

An Overview of Handicapping

Each golf course in the UK has what is known as a Standard Scratch Score (SSS). This is the number of strokes that a skilled player is expected to use to get around the course. A player's handicap is the number of strokes that have to be reduced from the player's gross score so that his or her nett score is equal to the SSS.

So, if the SSS is 72, and you take 80 strokes to complete it, your handicap is 8.

The Unified Handicapping System is administered by the Council of National Golf Unions (CONGU).

'Scratch' Players

Lower handicaps indicate a higher ability, and your handicap will reduce over time as you become better. Very skilled players will often reach handicaps of zero, and this is known as 'scratch'.

The Importance of Handicapping in Amateur Golf

Handicapping is important in amateur golf rather than in professional golf. This is because in amateur golf, players have a wide range of abilities. Without handicapping, the same high-ability players would win all competitions, so the handicap is used to make play fairer. Professionals do not play in competitions with handicaps.

Handicap in Stroke Play and Match Play

In stroke play the handicap is the number of strokes a player can remove from the total gross score in a round. e.g. If the player has a handicap of 10 and they get a gross score of 75, their nett score would be 65.

Handicap is more complicated in match play. One player may give strokes to the opponent or receive them depending on the handicap.

Proof of Handicap when Playing on Golf Courses

Golf courses will have a rating to show how difficult they are. The rating is based on what a scratch golfer is expected to shoot on the course, and a higher rating means it is more difficult. Courses also have a Professional Average Rating (PAR), but the handicap is calculated according to the course rating rather than the PAR.

Two courses may have the same PAR but different course ratings because some courses play easier than PAR, while some play harder. If the SSS is lower than PAR, this suggests players find it easier.

In order to play on a course, you will often be required to show proof of your handicap. This demonstrates that you know how to play golf and that you understand the rules of the game and golfing etiquette.

You need a golf handicap certificate to show your handicap, which you can get at a golf club by passing an exam.

Get Your Handicap Certificate

If you are completely new to golf, your best option is to take a course at a golf club and get your handicap certificate. Don't worry if your handicap is high to start with. The great thing about golf is that it is a game for everyone no matter what their ability. And as you work on your skills, your handicap will go down.