Rules of Handicapping Update for Members
On 1st April 2024, changes to the WHS Rules of Handicapping & Course Rating standards were introduced in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.
Below is an overview of the main changes:-
- Calculating Course Handicap™ using Course Rating (CR) minus PAR (CR-PAR). (Please note that your Course Handicap is likely to change as a result).
- Use of an Expected Score for a Hole Not Played, rather than using Net Par.
- Course Handicap Un-rounding:
For Competition purposes, the calculated and unrounded Course Handicap will be carried through to the Playing Handicap calculation. For General Play score submission, the golfer will continue to use the calculated and rounded Course Handicap. - Team Match Play Allowance Application:
The application of allowances in team match play events has also been changed so that the % is applied to the difference between the players Course Handicaps, taken from the lowest player upwards. - Playing Conditions Calculation Adjustments Made More Frequent:
The Playing Conditions Calculation (PCC) within GB&I has already been modified to increase the likelihood of an adjustment for abnormal playing conditions.
Other important information to note…..
- Player Responsibilities Under the Rules of Handicapping:
Players have an important role in ensuring the Rules of Handicapping are being implemented and administered appropriately. The main areas of responsibility for players are:
– Act with integrity by following the Rules of Handicapping and to refrain from using, or circumventing, the Rules of Handicapping for the purpose of gaining an unfair advantage,
– Attempt to make the best score possible at each hole,
– Submit all acceptable scores to provide reasonable evidence of their demonstrated ability,
– Submit acceptable scores for handicap purposes as soon as possible after the round is completed and before midnight local time,
– Play by the Rules of Golf.
– Certify the scores of other players.
– The player is responsible for making sure the card is written with the correct handicap information. - Submission of Scores:
– Competition scores must be returned “promptly” after play and via the method instructed by the Terms of Competition as set by the competition organisers.
– General Play: A player must declare their intent to submit a score prior to their round and the score must be submitted by midnight on the day of play. This is important to note, as any scores submitted after midnight will not be included the PCC calculation. It is strongly recommended to submit your score immediately after your round.
Further information regarding the above changes can be obtained from England Golf website via the following links :-
Additional detailed information is available via the 2024 WHS Update Resources page on the England Golf website.
Your Club Handicap Committee are the first point of contact for any WHS queries. They have access to the required resource(s) and tools to ensure they can support the membership at your club.