World Handicap System, effective 2nd November 2020 What you need to be aware of is your handicap will change on 2nd November 2020. The new term for you to become used to is “Handicap Index” and the way of calculating this is different to the way we are all used to. It is not the same as the handicap you have at the moment. During September and October, the new system will search golfing records for your last 20 scores. Each of those 20 scores discovered will be used to determine a “Score Differential” and a Slope Rating* is included within the calculation. The best 8 of the Score Differentials is then averaged and becomes your Handicap Index to be used from the 2nd November. Provisional Handicap Indices may be available on ClubV1 / HDID in October. On 2nd November any provisional Handicap Index becomes confirmed and must then be used for your next game. As a new score is submitted the list of your last 20 scores will change and consequently your Handicap Index may change. It is imperative you check your Handicap Index before starting a new round. *Slope Rating is the number which indicates the relative playing difficulty of the course for Bogey golfers compared to Scratch golfers (Bogey value for a man is a 20 - 22 h/c and for a woman is 24 - 26 h/c). It is the combination of the Course Rating and the Bogey Rating that allows us to calculate the Slope Rating of a set of tees. Before your next game you will need to go to the Pro Shop where there will be an R&A - USGA Course Rating Table. This Table will show all the course tees, White, White (Short white), Yellow, Purple and Red each one with Handicap Index values listed. After locating the tees to be used, find your Handicap Index and alongside you will find your Course Handicap. If you are playing in a competition you will need to convert a Course Handicap into a Playing Handicap using the Allowances listed in the Terms of the Competition. All scores are processed centrally by England Golf’s ISV and are updated overnight. Remember, if you have submitted a score, prior to your next game, you must check your Handicap Index. Noel Mack, Handicap Committee
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