For the last few years, golf’s governing bodies throughout the world have been working to create a universal handicap system that evens the playing field. Set to launch in 2020 is the World Handicap System. The two primary organizations that are seen as the world’s leader in golf, the United States Golf Association (USGA) and The Royal and Ancient Golf Club (R&A), have begun educating various organizations throughout the world through hands-on teaching and social media campaigns. By doing this, the two leaders can ensure the golf world is well-informed and ready for when the World Handicap System is implemented this year.
Here, our golf experts at Burl Oaks Golf Club will discuss the changes this new system will bring and what you need to keep in mind when you start golfing in the 2020 season.
Why Is This New System Being Implemented?
Essentially, this new handicap system is being put in place to consistently score golf games across the world. Throughout the world, there are different rules that regulate handicaps for the game of golf. Essentially, these new rules are being put in place, so every single qualifier for a major tournament has qualified on the same merits. Essentially, some of the new rules include the following:
● Adjusting for playing conditions (i.e., weather conditions)
● Finding a maximum hole score
● Rating the course and slope
● Accepting scores for handicaps
● Finding basic calculation for golfers’ Handicap Index
● Calculating the playing handicap
● Determining the scores needed to establish a Handicap Index, as well as a max score at 54.0
● Updating the Handicap Index on a consistent basis
To prepare golfers around the world for the new rule changes, the game’s governing bodies are implementing new learning materials, as well as traveling to different countries to implement the new rules. While it’s expected that most countries will begin using the World Handicap System at the beginning of the year, they know it’s not possible for all countries to implement the new rules right away. For that reason, they will be lenient while the new system is in its early stages. The hope with this new system is to not only set an international standard that evens the playing field, but it’s also being implemented to encourage people of all skills and backgrounds from around the world to golf.
Contact Burl Oaks Golf Club Today
If you are in the Twin Cities metro area and searching for a golf-focused club to join so you can play and hone your skills whenever you want, contact Burl Oaks Golf Club today. We are not a club that offers a variety of other amenities that take away from the purpose of the club itself. We focus on golf and building a community & relationships, which makes us the best club in Minnesota. To learn more about our golf club, give us a call at 952-472-7017 or message us on our contact page today.