1. What is a Handicap Index?

A Handicap Index is a number that represents your potential ability on a course of standard playing difficulty.  It is expressed up to one decimal place, e.g., 12.8.  The maximum Handicap Index is 36.4 for men and 40.4 for women.

 

 

2. How can I get a Handicap Index?

In order to obtain a Handicap Index, you must post the adjusted gross scores of the games that you have played.  After five 18 hole or ten 9 hole or an equivalent combination, from golf courses that have a USGA Course and Slope Rating have been posted, a Handicap Index will be generated.  It will be based on the best Handicap Differential of the five scores submitted. 

 

 

3. Do I need to take a Handicap Test?

Local clubs in Singapore require that golfers are familiar with the Rules of Golf, etiquette, course safety, behavior on the course and playing ability.  As such, you may have to go for a Courtesy Round with a committee member. 

  

 

4. What is Equitable Stroke Control (ESC)?

Equitable Stroke Control puts a limit on the number of strokes you can write down on the scorecard for any one hole, based on your course handicap. All scores including tournament scores are subject to the application of ESC. This procedure reduces high hole scores for handicap purposes in order to make handicaps more representative of your playing ability.

For example, on that one disaster hole you might have taken 14 strokes to get the ball in the cup. But based on your course handicap, ESC might require you to post only a "7" on the scorecard you turn in.

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5. What are the scores that I must post?

For handicapping purposes, you are required to record a hole score under the following circumstances:

. You must record the most likely score for any hole that you do not complete or is conceded a stroke. 

. There is no limit to the number of unfinished holes that you may have in a round. 

. You must record a score for such holes as par plus any handicap strokes that you are entitled to receive.

. However, a score must not be posted if the majority of the holes are not played under the principles of the Rules of Golf. (e.g. Texas Scrambles, Alternate Shots)

 

. If you play 13 holes or more, you must post an 18 hole card, and if you play 7 holes and less than 13, you must post a 9 hole card.

 

.All unfinished holes (including holes where strokes are conceded) are recorded with the most likely score for handicap purposes, must not exceed member’s Equitable Stroke Control and proceeded by an “X”.

 

.Holes not played or not played under the Rules of Golf are recorded with a score of par plus any handicap strokes entitled and preceded with an “X”. (e.g. X-5)

 

.Nine-hole scores are accepted on courses that have nine-hole USGA Course Rating and Slope Rating and at least seven holes are played.

 

.Scores in both match play and stroke play must be posted. This includes scores in competitions which you have not completed one or more holes or are requested to pick up when out of contention on a hole.

 

 

6. Are there unacceptable scores?

Yes, there are scores that are not acceptable for handicapping purposes and the following are some examples:

a.      When fewer than 7 holes are played;

b.      When a majority of the holes are not played in accordance with the Rules of Golf;

c.      When the length of the course is less than 2,700m for 18 holes or 1,350m for 9 holes.

d.      When playing on a course with no USGA Course Rating or Slope Rating.

 

7. What happens if I do not post an acceptable score?

If you do not post an acceptable score as soon as practical after playing a round, the Handicap Committee will post a penalty score on the 14th day of the date of play. The penalty score will be equal to the lowest or highest Handicap Differential in your scoring record.