An accurate Handicap Index® is dependent on a complete scoring history and the assurance that all acceptable scores are posted for peer review. After the completion of each round, players must ask themselves, “Is this score to be posted to my scoring record?”
First and foremost, all acceptable scores must be made on a golf course with a USGA Course Rating™ and Slope Rating®. Without valid Ratings issued by the local authorized golf association, a Handicap Differential™ cannot be calculated and computed into the player’s scoring record.
After the completion of a round, a player must determine on a hole-by-hole basis as to whether a minimum of seven holes were played in accordance with the principles of the Rules of Golf. If seven to 12 holes were played, the player must post a nine-hole score using the nine-hole USGA Course Rating/Slope Rating. If 13 or more holes were played, the player must post an 18-hole score to the player’s scoring record. For any holes not played, a score of par plus any handicap strokes the player is entitled to receive must be recorded.
With the first snowfall having already arrived in the Northeast and colder temperatures descending upon a majority of the United States, it is that time of year in which many parts of the country begin observing an inactive golf season. Even though mild temperatures in an area observing an inactive season may permit play, scores made in an inactive season are unacceptable for handicap posting purposes. However, any score made in an area observing an active golf season, such as Florida in December, must be posted to the player’s scoring record even if the player’s home club is observing an inactive season. A complete listing of the inactive season schedule is available online HERE.
It is important for players to remember that scores made in both match play and stroke play are acceptable for handicap purposes. This includes scores made in match play or in team competitions in which players are conceded strokes or are requested to pick up when out of contention on a hole. (Please see Section 4 of “The USGA Handicap System” manual for the correct procedure for adjusting hole scores.)
For a complete list of conditions of acceptable and unacceptable scores, please refer to Section 5-1 of “The USGA Handicap System” manual by clicking HERE.