I don’t think it’s unreasonable to suggest that golfers can be an opinionated and, at times, pedantic bunch. Everyone has their own thoughts on LIV Golf, whether Ryder Cup players should be paid, etiquette, dress codes and slow play, but handicapping arguably sits atop the list of most-discussed golfing topics.
It makes sense. The World Handicap System is a polarising subject, as future frameworks no doubt will be. And it’s hardly as if CONGU – the previous iteration – was universally popular. It’s an impossible job to create a system that works perfectly for everyone as the golfing paradigm continues to evolve.
But it does feel as though amateur golf is at a crossroads. The sport is trying to keep traditionalists on side while simultaneously attempting to modernise and appeal to a new generation of players. From conversations I’ve had and comments I’ve read, it seems many long-standing club golfers aren’t overly thrilled about handicapping.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
But why? Until relatively recently, you had to be a member of a golf club to maintain an official handicap. Supplementary scores – any cards put in outside of official competition play – only became permitted in 2008 under CONGU. Now, non-club members can have official handicaps made up entirely from scores returned in casual/non-competition rounds.
There are some people out there who feel handicaps should only be maintained in official competitions, and more still who believe only a select number of bounce or casual-round scores should be included in your eight from 20.
Indeed, we asked our X followers this question: ‘Do you think it’s right if all eight of your counting handicap rounds come in casual/non-competition games?’. Some 44% replied ‘yes’, while 56% answered ‘no’. Therein lies the issue.
Many low-handicap club golfers also feel strongly that the WHS has ruined competitions for low-single-figure and scratch players. The prevailing view from this category of player is that it’s impossible for them to win club competitions (indeed, the data would suggest it’s very difficult). Others believe mid-handicappers have it too easy and that golf is the only sport that rewards mediocrity.
Handicapping is arguably golf’s most-discussed topic
(Image credit: Kevin Murray)
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