Handicap FAQ’s
Your GRWGA membership includes a subscription to GAM (Golf Association of Michigan) and an online handicapping system called USGA GHIN or World Handicapping System.
Why do I need a Handicap Index?
By playing with a Handicap Index, you can compete with golfers of any skill level without having to give out strokes arbitrarily. By using a Handicap Index, you can compete against your own potential scoring ability instead of other golfer’s scores.
Why a Handicapping System?
The GRWGA uses handicaps to accurately flight members in GRWGA events so that similar abilities are competing together. This evenly matches players and makes events much more fun and fairly set up. Handicaps are also used for scoring net events. The GHIN system is also integrated with our tournament and registration software so that registration, event formatting, pairings and flighting can be automated. This is important for efficient organization and will make your event experience a positive one.
What if I don’t know or have a handicap index when I start with the GRWGA?
Many women golfers don’t know their handicap and it is important for members of the GRWGA to establish a GHIN handicap as soon as possible. To establish a GHIN handicap you need to post three 18-holes scores (or six 9-hole scores). If needed, start posting scores to GHIN as soon as you can. Until the GHIN handicap is established, we will use a very simple calculation to create an initial handicap (self-reported average score minus standard par).
Want a deeper dive? Participate in this online seminar from the USGA.
Does my GHIN number make me USGA Member?
Your GHIN number is tied to a regional association called the Golf Association of Michigan, which has been authorized to provide a GHIN Handicap Index by the USGA. The USGA does offer a separate membership, which does not include a GHIN Handicap Index.
What do I need to do with GHIN?
You need to enter your scores for rounds you play outside of GRWGA events. This includes golf rounds played on vacation, winter, spring and summer months. Anytime you play a round with another player who confirms you are following USGA rules, your score should be entered. The scores you enter will help build and maintain an accurate handicap so that we can continue to flight you in our events appropriately.
It is best to enter your scores hole-by-hole rather than a total score. By doing so, GHIN will automatically adjust your score for Maximum Hole Score for Handicap purposes. The principle of this rule: a score for handicap purposes should not be overly influenced by one or two bad hole scores that are not reflective of a player's demonstrative ability. The maximum score for GHIN is referred to as Net Double Bogey. The calculation for this maximum score is Par + 2 + your handicap strokes for the hole. Learn More about how this is calculated.
To know how to post scores to GHIN, use these step-by-step instruction videos. Get answers to frequently asked questions about your account and posting scores.
If you are into stats when you enter your scores by hole and even enter a number of putts you can use the GHIN system to track and report more details of your game. If you are interested in tracking more golf stats you’ll want to get into your GHIN account and review all the other options available to you. It is part of your membership so feel free to take advantage of it. Did you know that understanding the stats and details of your game can help you zero in on parts of your game to practice and can improve your game?
How do I access my GHIN Account?
When you first became a member you received an email with your login and password. Missed the email or can’t find the info? Visit the USGA GHIN website or contact us at info@grwa.com.
Do I need to post every score?
Yes, your Handicap Index is meant to give the most accurate representation of your playing potential. In order to do that, you need to post all rounds - good and bad. Remember, you must be with another player who confirms you are following USGA rules to post your score.
Note: The active Michigan Scoring season for posting is April 1 - October 30.
What if I have another handicapping system other than GHIN where I enter my scores?
GHIN is the most recognized handicapping system in the golf industry. As mentioned, we will enter your GRWGA event scores into GHIN. Please know that we are not able to use or enter handicaps from other handicapping systems for flighting.
Do I need to enter my scores for GRWGA events?
No, you do not need to enter GRWGA event scores to GHIN. When you play GRWGA events someone in your foursome will be using Golf Genius Live Scoring to enter your actual gross scores hole-by-hole as you play. The event management system will use your score from Live Scoring to post your event score to GHIN. A backup scorecard will also be kept by someone in the foursome. If Live Scoring is not available then GRWGA will use your backup scorecard to enter the event scores and the event management system will then post to GHIN.
Is there a local rule for maximum hole score for GRWGA Events?
Yes. For pace of play GRWGA has a circle max 10 rule. Players who are struggling on a hole can choose to pick up the ball and record a score of 10 by putting a circle around the 10 on the paper scorecard. This then designates that this was their maximum score on that hole. In Live Scoring, a circle max 10 score is entered as 10. Players who take a max score on a hole will remain in the competition and are eligible for prizes. For posting scores to GHIN, the score entered will follow USGA guidance of Double Bogey + net. When taking a Max 10 players are also still eligible for on course contests.
For more information on the circumstances and scoring when a player starts a hole but does not hole out visit this USGA page.
