World Handicap System - CSGA Memo #4

This is the fourth in a series of weekly emails introducing CSGA golfers to the new World Handicap System and GHIN Golfer tools. This week we will discuss the Playing Conditions Calculation.

The Course Rating System is the cornerstone of handicapping in the World Handicap System (WHS) and measures the difficulty of a golf course under normal conditions. Mother Nature and course setup can have a significant impact on scores on any given day. The WHS is responsive to changing course conditions with the introduction of the Playing Conditions Calculation (PCC).

The PCC is triggered when abnormal playing conditions cause scores to be unusually high or low on a given day. The calculation will adjust score differentials to better reflect a golfer's demonstrated performance when impacted by unusually difficult or forgiving conditions. Conservative in nature, the PCC is an automated statistical procedure within the WHS and will be notated on the golfer's scoring record when applied.

There must be at least eight scores submitted for a course on the day of play for the PCC to be calculated. The calculation will only consider scores of players at or below a Handicap Index of 36.0.Both 9- and 18-hole scores will be considered. Scores posted after the day of play where a PCC adjustment was calculated, will not be considered in the PCC calculation but will be subject to the adjustment. It is important that golfers post scores immediately after play so they will be considered in the PCC.

See the USGA Poster here >> WHS-PCC CALCULATION

Here is a video on the topic >> PCC-Video

As always, if you have any questions about the World Handicap System or the new GHIN golfer tools, please reach out to us via email.

Regards,

Bill Bigler

Director, Member Services

Connecticut State Golf Association