World Handicap System - FAQs

A selection of England Golf FAQs are given below.  The full version can be found here

Q: Where can I get a copy of the WHS rules?

A: A copy of the Player Edition of the Handicapping Rules can be downloaded here

Q: Can I use my Handicap Index abroad?

A: Yes – you will be able to convert your handicap index to a course handicap for the tees you play from overseas. If pre-registered, these scores can be returned to your home club for handicap purposes

Q: My current handicap is 11.6. What will be my new Handicap Index?

A: Your transition Handicap will be dependent on your ‘best eight from last 20’ scores returned from the previous two years. During the late summer of 2020, golfers will be able to see their Handicap Index displayed alongside their current handicap and see how it varies with each score entry. A transition calculation is available for those with less than 20 scores in their handicap record.

Q: As a golfer who plays a very small number of competitions, I suspect I will not have 20 scores recorded over the last two years. Can I still have a Handicap Index?

A: Those players who do not have the full 20 scores at transition will have a Handicap Index allocated by the same process as an initial Handicap Index would be allocated and developed. Moving forward you will be able to submit both social and competitive scores to build up a fully developed handicap record. Players are encouraged to return sufficient scores during 2020, either in competitions or by supplementary scores, to reach the magic 20 scores. This will create a Handicap Index indicative of current playing ability. 

Q: For how long are my last 20 scores valid? And what happens if I have a break in membership?

A: Scores will not expire. Your Handicap Index will only be valid if you are a member of an affiliated golf club.

Q: What will happen to my Handicap Index if I have a good round?

A: The score will very probably become part of the ‘best eight calculation and you will likely see a reduction in your Handicap Index. An additional ‘exceptional score’ reduction maybe applied depending on how good your score was compared to your current Handicap Index.

Q: Will I use my full Course Handicap or are there allowances for different formats of play? 

A: There will still be allowances for events which have been revised and are based on historical playing data. These revised allowances will provide for equity across all formats of play giving all participants the opportunity of success and are, within GB&I, mandatory for event organisers to follow

Q: I’m struggling to play to my current handicap from white tees. Will the new system make things even more difficult for me?

A: Not at all. With an averaging system, your Handicap Index will be responsive to your current ability. You should also be encouraged to play from a shorter tee set (providing it has a rating value), as the system will calculate a Course Handicap from your Handicap Index for that set of tees.

Q: How long will it take our committee to calculate Handicap Index changes?

A: The system will automatically update at midnight. This is completed via central software, not by the club. However, Handicap Committees will still be able to complete relevant reviews and communicate these to members.

Q: How will WHS affect the CSS value?

A: A daily Playing Conditions Calculation (similar to CSS) is calculated from all scores from all tees during that day. Scores must be returned as soon as possible and before midnight. The PCC is applied to the handicap calculations for all players, not just those playing from specific tees.

Q: Will golfers retain their current CDH number?

A: Yes.

Q: What do I need to do when I arrive to play golf?

A: Register/sign in as normal. Utilise the resources available to determine your Course Handicap for the set of tees being used. Check the Handicap allowance according to the terms of competition or format of play (i.e. full handicap, percentage of handicap) and calculate your Playing Handicap for that event. Once play is complete, return your score for processing in the system.

Q: Do I have to record all scores?

A: Players should submit all singles competition scores and have the ability to pre-register and submit scores from social games played in accordance with the rules of golf. Accuracy of a player’s Handicap Index will be improved the greater the number of scorecards submitted.

Q: What happens if I do not complete my round?

A: If you are playing a nine-hole round – then all 9 holes must be played for the score to be included in your record. If playing an 18-hole round you must complete at least 10 holes for the score to be returned. Any holes not played will be allocated a net par or net par plus one, before the score is processed.

Q: Will buffer zones still exist?

A: No - buffer zones will not be part of the World Handicap System.

Q: Can players still N/R and gain a 0 .1 increase?

A: There are no 0.1 increases under WHS. A hole that is started but not completed will be recorded as a net double bogey. Any holes not played will be allocated as a net par. The adjusted score is added to the player’s record.

Q: When playing other courses can I submit a score card to my home club?

A: Yes – you can record all pre-registered scores that follow the rules of golf and are authorised formats of play.