In 2020, we moved from the USGA Handicap System to the World Handicap System. Now, everyone in the world is using the same Handicap System. We’ve outlined a few reasons why you should be keeping a handicap about your local club or Eclub.
1. Allows you to compete fairly in a number of different formats
Whether you are playing match play or stroke play, Stableford or Four-Ball, your Handicap Index allows players of differing abilities to compete on an equitable basis. Read Appendix C of the Handicap Manual for recommended Handicap Allowances for various formats of play.
2. Tracks your progress and reflects your potential
Your handicap will display your past scores and your index will reflect what your potential could be. Each time you play and post a score, you will receive a Handicap Index Revision the next day. You can also keep your hole-by-hole stats in the USGA GHIN Mobile App.
3. Easy Score Posting
Your GHIN membership through Central Links Golf allows you to post scores on ghin.com, the GHIN Mobile App, and access to any score posting kiosk. Be sure to play and post on the same day in order for the Playing Conditions Calculation to accurately be applied, if applicable. Posting on the same day also ensures that your Handicap Index is accurate for the next day of play.
4. Tournament competition for men, women, and juniors
Your Handicap Index allows you to play in Central Links Golf tournaments and access to USGA Championships. Our tournaments are open to golfers of all ages and abilities, there is something for everyone!
5. Discounts on travel, concert tickets, sports tickets, and more*
Your GHIN membership allows you to use Affinity Travel Benefits, where you can save up to 70% on travel and entertainment for any time of year.
6. Stay Up to Date
You will receive a GHIN Newsletter in your inbox on the 1st and the 15th of every month. This newsletter focuses on golf-related news, Rules of Golf & Handicapping Education, upcoming events, and past results.
7. Hole in One Recognition
When your golf course submits your Hole-in-One, you will receive a Hole-in-One certificate and mention in the GHIN newsletter.
8. Opportunity to be chosen for regional team events
Players who compete in Central Links Golf Tournaments can be chosen to play for a regional competition team. A few of our regional competitions include 4-State, Kansas/Nebraska Cup, Fore State, Mid America Cup, and more.
9. “What’s your handicap index?”
Once people find out you play golf, they’re sure to ask you this question, and now you’ll have an answer.
10. Motivates you to improve
Because an index will track your progress, you will be motivated to continue improving. We give our yearly awards to the Most Improved Golfer in our region, maybe this year it could be you!
What would you add to this list?
*May take up to 14 business days after joining for Affinity Travel Benefits to activate