Golf Handicap 101

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 In golf, a player's handicap is a numerical measure of their playing ability. It is used to adjust the strokes that a player is given on a course during a round of golf.  

A player's index is a measure of their average score relative to the course rating, which is a measure of the difficulty of the course. The course rating is determined by a team of experts who play the course and assign a score to each hole based on how difficult they think it is. The player's index is then calculated based on the difference between their average score and the course rating, and takes into account the slope of the course, which is a measure of the relative difficulty of the course for a bogey golfer (a player who typically scores one over par on each hole). 

 A player's playing handicap is the number of strokes they are given on a specific course, based on their index and the slope of the course. It is used to determine how many strokes a player gets on each hole during a round of golf. 

 Slope is a measure of the relative difficulty of a course for a bogey golfer, compared to a scratch golfer (a player with a zero handicap). It is used to adjust a player's index for the specific course they are playing on, to produce their playing handicap. A course with a higher slope rating is considered to be more difficult for a bogey golfer, and as a result, players will be given more strokes on that course. 

 It is important for golfers to maintain an up-to-date handicap through a recognized governing body, as it allows them to track their progress and compete fairly with other players. We always suggest consulting your local golf professional with questions about  handicap/index or slope/rating is your local Golf Professional. 

In the United States, the USGA is the governing body which does an excellent job providing golfers and professionals assistance with the rules and process of the Handicap Index. 

The USGA website provides great resources for players and professionals:

https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/handicapping.html

Golf Canada is the governing body in Canada which provides guidelines and administers the Handicap Index. Their Website provides many resources for players and professionals:

https://www.golfcanada.ca/handicapping/

SMART Golf recommends players of all levels maintain a handicap through the governing bodies. You can contact your local professional or visit the websites above to learn more about registering.