World Golf Handicap Update

Golf's governing bodies hope that a simpler, unified system will give more players - especially those new to the game - an easier entry point to keeping a handicap and playing in handicapped events Let's take a quick look at the biggest changes players will see.

Currently, the GHIN system updates your handicap index twice each month, on the 1st and 15th. Starting January 1, handicap indexes will be revised daily via the World Handicap System. If you play a lot, you'll see a true representation of your handicap as it responds to posted scores in a more timely manner.

If you signup for a GHIN account now, you have to post at least ten rounds and wait until the next revision to establish a handicap index. The new World Handicap System, just one day after receiving your third posted round (a total of 54 holes), will give players a handicap index. The system will only use the best eight of your last 20 scores instead of the current ten best. You should see more frequent changes as your scores go up and down.

Let's face it, Equitable Stroke Control is tough to keep track of, especially as you improve and your handicap index drops. The new World Handicap System will have a maximum postable score of net double bogey on any hole. The idea should keep your posted score closer to your true potential as a player.

How many times have you played well, but blamed your poor score on the weather? Plenty, I'm sure. The new system will consider the day's course and weather conditions to adjust your handicap accordingly. Everyone in the Pacific Northwest should benefit from that change!

As stated earlier, golf's governing bodies want more people to try establishing a handicap. Since golf is a notoriously tough game to pick up, the maximum handicap index will be raised from 36.4 for men and 40.4 for women to 54 players of both genders. How to use your Handicap Index under the World Handicap System

For more information or to learn more about the WHS, visit usga.org/whs