Dear Handicap Hints,

I’m excited about the revisions to the World Handicap System that now allow for official score-posting on short courses. However, as an avid 18-hole tournament player who relies on an accurate Index Number for equitable play, I was apprehensive to post a recent score. I shot a 56 at the Palm Royale CC, a par-54 18-hole short course, and I’m worried that posting a 2-over round will take my number down to an inaccurate reflection of my actual skill level. Are my fears justified?

— Kevin G., Brookside GC Men’s Club

Kevin G.,

It isn’t every day that someone has a 56 to post for 18 holes for handicap purposes, but this is something that will be more common with the inclusion of courses between 1,500 and 3,000 yards for 18 holes in the World Handicap System (WHS)™. 

The good news is that the Course Rating System™ uses Course Rating™, Slope Rating™ and par together to determine the Score Differential™. The Score Differential is key as to whether this round will be considered one of your best and impactful to the calculation of your Handicap Index®.

Two over for 18 holes by itself shouldn’t send a shiver down your spine, as most golfers aspire to improve and lower their Handicap Index while fulfilling one element of the purpose of WHS; compete, or play a casual round, with anyone else, on a fair and equitable basis.

Based on the calculation using rating data for Palm Royale CC, the 56 results in a Score Differential of 7.0, which is slightly higher than your Handicap Index (4.2). So that apprehension should subside and encourage you and everyone else to post all your acceptable scores to assure the Handicap Index is reflective of demonstrated ability.

— Kevin O., Handicap Hints