Golf Handicaps

iGolf, a part of England Golf, is the only authorised provider of a Handicap Index® under the World Handicap System™ (WHS™) in England. Making iGolf the only way to obtain a Handicap Index® for non-club members.

What is a Handicap in Golf?

A Handicap Index® is a numerical measure that represents a golfer’s skill level. It is designed to level the playing field, enabling golfers of varying abilities to compete fairly. Essentially, a handicap adjusts a player’s score to reflect their skill, allowing less experienced golfers to compete on an equal footing with more seasoned players.

How Does a Golf Handicap Work?

A Handicap Index® is typically expressed as a single number (e.g., 10.4 or 18.2). This number indicates the number of strokes over par a golfer is expected to shoot during a round on a standard golf course.

Examples:

In Play:

• Stroke Play: Subtract your handicap from your total score at the end of the round.
• Match Play: Handicaps adjust scores on a hole-by-hole basis to create a fairer match.

For instance, if Player A has a handicap of 5 and Player B has a handicap of 20, Player B receives one stroke on the 15 most difficult holes as indicated on the scorecard.

How is a Handicap Applied in Play?

When competing, handicaps adjust a golfer’s score, making the match fairer:

• In stroke play, the golfer subtracts their handicap from their total score at the end of the round.
• In match play, handicaps are used on a hole-by-hole basis, with the weaker player receiving strokes on the hardest holes.

For example, if Player A has a handicap of 5 and Player B has a handicap of 20, Player B would receive one stroke on the 15 most difficult holes, as indicated by the stroke index on the scorecard.

How to Get a Handicap

Getting a golf handicap is a straightforward process that helps you track your progress and compete fairly with golfers of all skill levels. Here’s how:

Step 1: Understand the Handicap System

Golf handicaps are calculated using the WHS™, a global system that:

• Considers your recent scores.
• Accounts for the difficulty of courses played.
• Ensures consistent standards worldwide.

Step 2: Join a Handicap Provider

Choose a pathway that suits your needs:

• Golf Club Membership: By joining an affiliated golf club you will be able to obtain a Handicap Index®.
• Non-Club Memberships (e.g. iGolf): If you’re not a member of a club, iGolf offers a way to obtain a Handicap Index® under the WHS™ without the commitment of club membership.

Step 3: Submit Your Scores

To establish your initial handicap, you must:

• Record scores from at least 54 holes (e.g., three 18-hole rounds or six 9-hole rounds).
• Follow the Rules of Golf and play under applicable handicap conditions.

Step 4: Use Digital Tools

iGolf makes it easy to maintain your Handicap Index® via the MyEG app :

• Log your scores digitally.
• The system calculates and updates your Handicap Index® automatically.

Step 5: Track and Maintain Your Handicap

Your handicap evolves as you play and log rounds. The WHS™ uses your best 8 scores from your most recent 20 rounds to ensure your handicap reflects your current ability.

Read more on how to get a golf handicap for non members