What is a Golf Handicap?

What is a golf handicap?

Do you know what a golf handicap is? It's a number that demonstrates the golfer's level of skill. Basically, it compares their playing ability to that of a scratch golfer (zero handicap) across 18 holes. To make sure golfers of different skill levels can play together fairly, handicaps are calculated based on how the golfer has performed in the past. The lower the handicap, the better their skill level is. For example, if a golfer has a handicap of 10, they would be expected to play 10 strokes poorer than a scratch golfer in an 18-hole game. 

Why are handicaps used?

Handicaps are continuously updated to ensure they accurately reflect a golfer's current skill level, and they're used to determine their teeing ground, stroke allowance, and net score in handicap events.

Where can you get an official handicap?

It is recommended to record the handicap with an official golf association. Each state has an Allied Golf Association which is affiliated with the United States Golf Association. These organizations allow golfers to post their scores to the Golf Handicap Information Network which in turn calculates your handicap. 

How is a handicap calculated?

The general calculation of your handicap is based on an average score of a golfer’s best 8 scores out of the latest 20 rounds played (detailed calculation found here).