A number of SCGA (Southern California Golf Association) clubs use scoring data to determine if any action is necessary to promote equitable competition and ensure the Handicap Index® value represents a golfer’s demonstrated ability. This aligns with the general requirements of Rule 7.1 and Appendix D in the Rules of Handicapping. The SCGA supports club handicap committees analyzing this data.
Additionally, reviewing average differentials of certain score types, including competition scores, is acceptable. A significant deviation in a specific score type in comparison to the Handicap Index might warrant further investigation or potential action, such as the modification of a player’s Handicap Index. The USGA’s Handicap Review Tool is available to analyze data and, if warranted, includes a recommended amount of a Handicap Index adjustment. We recognize that some clubs feel that competition scores aren’t weighed strongly enough by the Handicap Review Tool. Considering that less than 4% of scores posted in the United States are posted as competition scores, it is vital to weigh all score types equally. Further, the criteria used to designate a score as a competition vary dramatically from club to club, which leads to inconsistent results.
Any recommendation for an adjustment provided by the Handicap Review Tool needs to be reviewed at the club before any modification is applied. The human element at the club can never be replaced. The club knows their members and is much better positioned to determine if a modification is warranted and if so, how much.
Periodically, we are made aware of clubs computing a value, based on score type, local club competitions, or something similar, and using this not just for analysis, but for conducting a competition. For example, we are aware of clubs that compute a number, compare it against a member’s Handicap Index, and use the lower of the two values in their club competitions. Using only certain elements of the World Handicap System™ is in violation of the authorization requirements defined by the USGA and agreed upon by the SCGA as an Allied Golf Association (AGA). Clubs must use all elements in the World Handicap System to remain in compliance.
Allow us to reemphasize that very important point – the USGA and SCGA do not endorse or support an alternative “index calculation” that only uses certain elements of the World Handicap System, which is then used by a club in its competitions. The World Handicap System is not made up of pick and choose options.
A term of competition where a club chooses to use the Low (LHI) or lowest Handicap Index over a certain time period is not a violation of the WHS as this is not using a partial or different formula, rather picking from a timeframe of Handicap Index calculations. However, it is not consistent with the USGA’s recommendation of using the (current) Handicap Index in effect on the date that a competition commences. Using the LHI, by itself, does not improve the equity of a competition.
Further, a club can use a modified value for their competition based on selected scores; however, this is only for use for a club event with no impact on the Handicap Index. This is a modification to the Course or Playing Handicap which is permitted under Rule 7.2a of the Rules of Handicapping:
7.2a Terms of the Competition
The Committee in charge of a competition may set entry/eligibility requirements within the Terms of the Competition relevant to a player's Handicap Index or calculated Playing Handicap. For example, the Committee can:
- Set a maximum Handicap Index for entry or use in the competition.
- Set a maximum Playing Handicap.
- Reserve the right to adjust the Playing Handicap of an entrant where there is evidence that the player’s Handicap Index does not reflect their demonstrated ability.
Please note that while modifying a Course Handicap may be beneficial for your club events, it does not address the player who has a Handicap Index that needs attention. The Handicap Committee must modify the Handicap Index (upward or downward) of those players to protect the field in their events and events conducted elsewhere for a member using a potentially inaccurate Handicap Index.
Ultimately the Handicap Index is the universally accepted value used for casual as well as competitive play. If there are players in your club with a questionable Handicap Index, your Handicap Committee needs to be involved and take action. An accurate Handicap Index is used not only for your club events but is used by your members outside of your club. If your club feels strongly enough to modify a Course or Playing Handicap, they must act on the Handicap Index as well.
