Fixing the Handicap System

Golfing times have changed; new clubs, balls, training aids and courses to name just a few. The number of courses and golfers has grown dramatically in 40 years. The USGA implementation of the handicap system hasn't changed since who can remember when. Though they have started to use the internet - a little - they are really missing the boat.

I don't blame the USGA, their expertise is not the internet, it's the game of golf. However, they need to know when it's time to get help. There are a number of handicap tracking tools available on the web, and they all offer significant advantages over the USGA system. Make no mistake, they all follow the USGA rules, they've just updated how scores are entered and tracked.

The USGA gets significant revenue from every golf club/group that uses their system. I don't begrudge them that. The game needs them along with the R&A to manage the rules and promote the game. They could still generate revenue by subcontracting the handicap system for someone else to execute. And they could make a significant improvement in the value and integrity of the handicap itself.

Tomorrow I'll talk about some of the advantages of these new systems.