Golf Resource

A handicap is a numerical measure used to determine an amateur golfer’s ability to play a round of eighteen holes of golf. A handicap generally symbolizes the number of strokes above par that a golfer will achieve on a day of golf. In a competition that utilizes stroke play, a competitor’s handicap is subtracted from their total score (gross) at the end of a round in order to calculate the net score which standings are calculated. In match play, handicap strokes are allocated on a hole to hole basis, according to the handicap rating of each hole. When it comes to the likes of Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson or Ernie Els, handicaps do not apply as in professional golf handicap systems are not used. These amazingly gifted golfers often score below par hence have a calculated handicap of zero, often referred to as a scratch golfer, though if you are not a professional but your average score for every round is below par, you are too a scratch golfer.