Local Guidance for Rule 6 – Course Handicap and Playing Handicap Calculation
Make the Process of Converting a Handicap Index to a Course Handicap as Easy as Possible
The Course Rating, Slope Rating, and par for a set of tees are used to convert a Handicap Index into a Course Handicap based on the difficulty of the tee selected for play.
The calculation of the Course Handicap is used to determine the appropriate score to submit for handicap purposes, including any adjustments for net double bogey or application of net par, with the latter reserved for limited and practical scenarios and approved by the Handicap Committee.
It is important that this conversion process is made as easy as possible for all players and options may include use of:
If Course Handicap tables are used, they should be posted in a place which is accessible for use by all players; for example, close to the first tee, scoring kiosk or in the clubhouse locker rooms.
9-Hole Course Handicap
To calculate a 9-hole Course Handicap, the first step is to divide the player’s Handicap Index by two, and round this value to the nearest tenth using traditional rounding methods. It is necessary to round the value to the nearest tenth to convert to a 9-hole Course Handicap. The formula for calculating the Course Handicap is then used, using the 9-hole Course Rating, Slope Rating, and par for the tees being played.
9-Hole Course Handicap Example
Handicap Index – 8.7; Course Rating – 35.3; Slope Rating – 121; Par – 36
8.7 ÷ 2 = 4.35; rounded to 4.4
9-Hole CH = 4.4 x (121 ÷ 113) + (35.3 – 36)
9-Hole CH = 4.011…
9-Hole CH = 4
Target Score
The target score is the benchmark the player can use to know if they have played to their handicap. Generally, a player should expect to play to their handicap about 15-20% of the time and, on average, expect to shoot about generally 2-5 strokes higher.
Target Score = Course Handicap + par