The principal changes from the previous systems, titled “Handicapping System for Men – 2003” and “South African Ladies Golf Union Handicapping System 1 January 2005” are as follows:

Section 3 Definition Changes, including Calculated Rating, Standard Rating

Section 6 Handicap Differentials

Section 7 How to Compute Handicaps

Section 9 Handicap Revisions

Section 10 Allocation of Handicap Strokes

Section 11 Handicap Allowances

Section 14 Method of Assessment of Standard Rating

As this system is a substantial change from the previous versions, there may be requirements to alter the detailed operation of this system. Should such changes be necessary, they will be made without violating the principles introduced in this version of the system.

NOTE 1 : Throughout this manual, the use of the masculine applies equally to the feminine.

NOTE: The attention of clubs is drawn to Section 14 and 15 which requires that the overall placement of the tee markers and pins should be such that the course always plays to the length on which the course rating is assessed.

If on any day this is not possible, then the course rating for the day must be adjusted.

Part 1 PURPOSE AND DEFINITIONS

Section 1 COPYRIGHT

The system detailed here is the property of both the South African Golf Association (SAGA) and Women’s Golf South Africa (WGSA). It may only be used to determine handicaps for Amateur golfers and club professionals as defined in Section 7. Authorisation to use this system is automatically granted to all Unions affiliated to SAGA and WGSA and through these Unions to their member clubs. A disaffiliated Union or Club is not entitled to continue using this system.

Any organizations, including service providers, wishing to utilise this system must obtain written approval from either SAGA or WGSA. Each approval will state a period of validity, such period not to exceed five years from date of issue.

Section 2 PURPOSE

2.1 Essence of the System

Handicapping is the great equalizer among golfers of differing abilities and must meet two main requirements:

a) Simple enough for operation by the small, modestly-equipped club as well as the large club.

b) Thorough enough to produce fair, uniform handicapping.

Both the SAGA and WGSA present this Handicap System in the conviction that, when faithfully operated, it results in equitable handicaps no matter where golfers live and play.

The System is based on the assumption that every player will endeavour to make the best score they can at each hole in every 18-hole stroke play round they play and that they will report such round for handicap purposes, regardless of where the round is played.

2.2 Purpose

The purpose of the System is to:

a) Provide fair handicaps for all golfers.

b) Reflect the player’s inherent ability as well as his recent scoring trends.

c) Adjust their handicap as their scoring ability changes.

d) Disregard freak high scores that bear little relation to the player’s normal ability.

e) Establish handicaps for all golf, from championship eligibility to informal games.

f) Make handicap work as easy as possible for the handicapper.

Section 3 DEFINITIONS

3.1 Altitude Factor

Altitude above sea level is one of the factors influencing Length Rating.

3.2 Calculated Rating (CR)

For all competition fields, the calculated rating which may be higher or lower than the Standard Rating. It shall not be calculated for fields of less than 24 players.

3.3 Standard Rating (SR)

Is the standard rating for a course, and is a whole number derived from a combination of the standard length rating and applied difficulty factors. It represents the typical score a scratch golfer is expected to achieve.

3.4 Gross Score

“Gross Score” is a player’s actual score before it is adjusted by their handicap.

3.5 Handicap

A “handicap” is the number of strokes a player receives to adjust their inherent scoring ability to the common level of scratch or zero-handicap golf.

A “plus handicap” is the number of strokes a player gives to adjust their scoring ability to the common level.

3.6 Handicap Allowance

A “handicap allowance” is the portion of the handicap usable in a given form of play.

3.7 Handicap Committee

A “handicap committee” is a group of at least two, preferably three, members of a Golf Club Committee, who are responsible for the monitoring and revision of all handicaps at that Club.

One individual may perform the normal functions of a handicapper, but in cases where handicap adjustments, outside the standard calculations of this booklet, are to be applied to an individual, the Handicap Committee must make such adjustments.

3.8 Handicap Differential

A “handicap differential” is the difference between a player’s gross score and the Calculated Rating for the morning or afternoon of play. If a CR is not available, then the differential is the difference between a player’s gross score and the Standard Rating (SR).

3.9 Handicap Stroke Hole

A “handicap stroke hole” is a hole at which a player applies a handicap stroke (or strokes) to his gross score for that hole to determine a net score for the hole.

The order in which handicap strokes (from 1 to 18) are allocated to the holes of the course should be shown on the scorecard. (See Section 10).

3.10 Length Rating

Is a figure derived from the total of the lengths of each hole, such length taken from the permanent markers, down the centre of the architected flow of the hole, to the centre of the green.

3.11 Net Score

A “net score” is a player’s score after his gross has been adjusted by their handicap.

3.12 Par

“Par” is the score that a scratch golfer would be expected to make for a given hole. The following are the recommended ranges for allocating par to each hole:

For Men:

Holes of 225 metres and under Par 3

Holes of 226 – 450 metres Par 4

Holes of 451 metres and over Par 5

For Women:

Holes of 201 metres and under Par 3

Holes of 202 – 366 metres Par 4

Holes of 367 metres and over Par 5

3.13 Professional Golfers and Golfers without Amateur Status

A Professional Tour Player is defined as a member of any recognised professional tour, be it international, local or senior tour.

Golfers who have forfeited their amateur status by way of contravention of the R&A Rules of Amateur Status may not receive an official handicap until such time as re-instatement has been granted.

Club professionals, part of whose duty is to play golf with club members, may be handicapped by the club to which they are attached, and such players are obliged to abide by the regulations contained herein. (see note 7.1 a)

3.14 Rating

“Standard Rating” is the evaluation of the playing difficulty of a course compared with other rated courses. It is expressed in strokes and is based on length and the ability of scratch golfer. (See Section 12)

“Length Rating” is the evaluation of the playing difficulty of a course based on length only.

3.15 Rating Adjustment Factors

“Rating adjustment factors” are course conditions which influence rating. These include slopes, hazards, trees, out-of-bounds, width of fairways, size and shape of greens and the presence of doglegs and blind tee or approach shots.

3.16 Rating Marker

A “rating marker” is a permanent indicator of the starting point from which each hole is measured for Length Rating, placed at the side of the tee. All markers for a particular set of tees (course) must have the same colour: yellow, white, red, blue etc.

3.17 Forward Tees

“Forward Tees” are specially designated to be used by golfers over the age of 65 years who have been given a concession to obviate the necessity of driving over long carries of water or brush. See Section 19.

Part 2 HANDICAPPING

Section 4 ELEMENTS OF THE SYSTEM

The System requires:

4.1 Complete, accurate scoring records of all players.

4.2 Course ratings, which are uniform. (See Section 12)

4.3 Faithful application of the handicapping formula.

Section 5 SCORES ACCEPTABLE

5.1 Rules of Golf

Scores must be made for 18-hole rounds under the Rules of Golf as approved and published by R&A Rules Limited for stroke play.

Any local rules must conform to the Rules of Golf.

5.2 Incomplete Holes and rounds

5.2.1 Rule 1 of the rules of Golf specifies “The Game of Golf consists of playing a ball from the teeing ground into the hole by a stroke or successive strokes in accordance with the Rules”. No score can be returned in individual stroke play unless this Rule is followed.

5.2.2 In forms of play in which completion of every hole is not essential, it is sometimes helpful and speeds up play for a player to discontinue play on a hole perhaps because of a lost ball or for some other valid reason. Competitions should be scheduled to permit completion of all holes by every competitor whenever possible as it is strongly recommended that hole and rounds be completed to provide maximum information on the player’s ability. However, when play at a hole is not completed for any valid reason, the player shall, for handicap purposes only, return a score for the hole in accordance with the formula in Section 5.2.3 below.

5.2.3 A score for any hole, whether complete or incomplete in any round, is to be reduced to one stroke or a specified number of strokes over par for handicap purposes as follows:

Handicap Limitation on hole scores

0 or less Limit of one over par on any hole

1 to 18 Limit of two over par on as many holes as the player has handicap strokes, and a limit of one over par on the balance of holes.

19 and over Limit of three over par on as many holes as the player has two handicap strokes, and a limit of two over par on the balance of holes

For the purposes of limiting the strokes recorded per hole, the full handicap shall first be used to determine the bracket in the preceding table and secondly to set the limits as defined by the table

5.2.4 When a putt is conceded in an event in which completion of every hole is not essential, the actual score for the hole shall be entered, counting the conceded putt as one stroke.

5.2.5 Under no circumstances shall this provision be used to control handicaps artificially. If it should be used for such purposes, the player’s handicap may be adjusted arbitrarily under Section 9.2.4

5.3 Scores on all Courses

Stroke Play Scores on all courses, at home and away, should be reported by the player, together with the Standard Rating. Scores submitted through the internet are acceptable for handicapping purposes.

5.4 Scores not Acceptable

Scores made under the following conditions are not acceptable for handicap purposes and should not be entered in any form in the player’s scoring record:

a) When less than an 18-hole round is played.

b) When the types of clubs are limited (as in a competition in which only iron clubs are allowed).

c) When the round played includes the use of “Mulligans”.

d) Match play rounds

5.5 Net Disqualification not Affecting Gross

If a competitor is disqualified on his net score for playing with a handicap higher than his actual handicap, his gross score shall nevertheless be recorded for handicap purposes.

5.6 Use of Senior or Forward Tees. (See Section 19)

Players who have attained the age of 65 may apply to the Committee for permission to play off designated Forward tees.

Once a player has been granted such permission, he must continue to use the appropriate Forward tees for all competitions. All scores entered for handicap purposes, whether in a competition or not, must specify the rating applicable to the next further set of tees which have been properly rated.

These players’ scores must be included in the derivation of the Calculated Rating for all competition rounds.

Committees may prohibit the use of Forward or Senior tees in certain competitions, for example, in Club Championships and Gross events.

Section 6 HANDICAP DIFFERENTIALS

6.1 How to Determine the Calculated Rating (CR)

The Calculated Rating must only be computed for fields of 24 players or more. Separate Calculated Ratings must be computed for both AM and PM fields on the same day.

The number of players is multiplied by 0,20 to determine the 20% point in the field. The resultant figure is rounded to the next whole number.

Net scores are scanned from lowest to highest until the figure for the 20% point matches the count of scores scanned. This net score becomes the potential Calculated Rating.

Calculated Rating is a whole number in the range of (Standard Rating - 1) to (Standard Rating + 4). Calculated Rating values lower than (Standard Rating -1) are limited to (Standard Rating -1).

Calculated Rating values greater than (Standard Rating + 4) are limited to (Standard Rating + 4).

Any penalty scores applied to a player shall not be used in the derivation of the Calculated Rating.

Example

Assuming a field of 83 players, the 20% point is 83 x 0,20 = 16,6, rounded to next whole number = 17

We then scan from lowest net until we have scanned the 17^th lowest net.

Assuming the 16^th 17^th and 18^th net scores are 73, 73 and 74, then 73 (the 17^th lowest net) becomes the Calculated Rating.

If the Standard Rating for this course is 68, then the limit of (Standard Rating + 4) would be applied, reducing the Calculated Rating from 73 to 72

6.2 Mixed fields – effect on Calculated Rating

There are often differing Standard Ratings for men’s and women’s tees, where they compete in the same competition, e.g. Sunday afternoon. Due to the inherent differences between these ratings, and the underlying course, it is not desirable to derive a Calculated Rating from the net scores of both men and women.

Whenever there at least 24 men and 24 women, separate Calculated Ratings should be computed for men and women.

Were there 24 of one, but not 24 of the other, then a Calculated Rating should be derived for the one with 24 players and the Standard Rating, as defaulted by the Club, should be used in computing differentials for the other players.

6.3 How to Determine Differentials

A “handicap differential” is the difference between a player’s gross score and the Calculated Rating (CR) of the course on which the score was made (Definition 2). If a CR is not available, then the “handicap differential” is the difference between a player’s gross score and the Standard Rating (SR) of the course on which the score was made (Definition 3).

6.4 Handicap Controls

a) Plus Differential

When the score is higher than the calculated or standard rating, the differential is a plus figure, as follows:

Score 95

Course Rating 72

Handicap Differential 23

b) Minus Differential

When the score is lower than the course rating, the differential is a minus figure, as follows:

Score 69

Course Rating 72

Handicap Differential - 3

6.5 Use of Differentials

Handicap differentials simplify handicap computations and are for use with the Handicap Differential Chart – Section 7.1

Section 7 HOW TO COMPUTE HANDICAPS

7.1 Lowest 10 of last 20 Differentials

A Full handicap is computed from the lowest 10 handicap differentials of the player’s last 20 rounds, as follows:

a) Total the lowest 10 differentials.

b) Apply the total to the handicap Differential Chart below.

c) Locate the group within which the total falls.

d) The player’s handicap is opposite this group in the handicap column on the right

HANDICAP DIFFERENTIAL CHART

Total of Lowest

10 Differentials Handicap

Total of Lowest

10 Differentials Handicap

- 64 : - 55 + 6

- 54 : - 45 + 5

- 44 : - 35 + 4

- 34 : - 25 + 3

- 24 : - 15 + 2

- 14 : - 05 + 1

- 04 : 04 0

05 : 14 1

15 : 24 2

25 : 34 3

35 : 44 4

45 : 54 5

55 : 64 6

65 : 74 7

75 : 84 8

85 : 94 9

95 : 104 10

105 : 114 11

115 : 124 12

125 : 134 13

135 : 144 14

145 : 154 15

155 : 164 16

165 : 174 17

175 : 184 18

185 : 194 19

195 : 204 20

205 : 214 21

215 : 224 22

225 : 234 23

235 : 244 24

245 : 254 25

255 : 264 26

265 : 274 27

275 : 284 28

285 : 294 29

295 : 304 30

Men whose total exceeds 304 shall be

given a handicap of 30

305 : 314 31

315 : 324 32

325 : 334 33

335 : 344 34

345 : 354 35

355 : 364 36

Women whose total exceeds 364 shall be given a handicap of 36

Notes

a) Professional Tour players (as defined in section 3.13) are to play off a +6 handicap when competing with amateurs in a competition where the club concerned has permitted the professional’s participation. Club professionals are only permitted to play off their officially computed South African handicaps at their home club or in other competitions with the permission of the organising committee.

Such player may not receive any prize for gross score, longest drive or nearest the pin competitions.

b) Amateur golfers may be given a minimum handicap of +3 by an affiliated club. Any reduction below +3 must be authorised by the Home Union after receiving and reviewing details of the player’s scoring record.

c) Amateur golfers are to be restricted to a minimum of a +5 handicap.

7.2 Fewer than 20 Differentials Available

a) Fewer than 5 Scores: No Handicap

A Handicap shall not be issued to a player who has returned fewer than 5 scores.

b) 5 to 20 Differentials

When at least 5, but fewer than 20 differentials are available, the handicap is computed as follows:

a. Determine the number of differentials to be used from the following table:

Column 1 Column 2

Differentials Available Differentials to be used

5 Lowest 1

6 – 7 Lowest 2

8 – 9 Lowest 4

10 – 11 Lowest 5

12 – 13 Lowest 6

14 – 15 Lowest 7

16 – 17 Lowest 8

18 – 19 Lowest 9

20 Lowest 10

b. Average the lowest differentials to be used (Column 2)

c. Multiply the average of the differentials to be used by 10.

d. Using this equivalent to “total of lowest 10 differentials”, locate the group in the “Handicap Differential Chart” in Section 7-1 above

e. The resultant handicap is to the right under the handicap column

Section 8 SCORING RECORDS

8.1 Score

The score should be returned to the player’s designated club (see Section 7 – 8) every time a player completes an 18-hole Stroke Play round, no matter where it is played. Fair handicapping depends upon full, accurate information of a player’s ability as reflected by his scores. All golfers interested in fair play should make sure that their scores, good and bad, are recorded. Incomplete records lead to unfair handicaps. Proper handicap records are very important to a club’s well being. The club should devote the attention and funds necessary to keep them correctly.

Should a player fail to return a score on the handicap system he shall have a penalty score applied in accordance with point 8.6. Should a player persist in this practice, disciplinary measures as described in this Handicapping Manual should be instituted.

8.2 Nine Hole Scores

8.2.1 A nine-hole course played twice consecutively constitutes a stipulated 18-hole round – same day and session

8.2.2 The following will also constitute a stipulated 18-hole round:

Two consecutive 9-holes played on the same 9 or 18-hole course

(a) In different sessions (e.g. AM / PM of the same day)

(b) On different days (e.g. Saturday / Sunday)

Provided that no other round of golf is played between these two 9 hole rounds

8.3 Not accepted for handicap purposes

a) Two x 9-holes on different courses

b) 1 x 9 holes

c) 1 x 9-holes played multiplied by two

d) Playing 9-holes with 2 balls (2 scores different sets of tees)

8.4 Information Required

The following information should be given in respect of each round:

a) Player’s name.

b) Date.

c) Name of course.

d) 18-Hole gross score.

e) Standard Rating.

A fellow competitor must countersign all scores returned.

8.5 Time limit on entering scores

A score should be returned within 72 hours of the completion of a round. Scores not returned in time, will result in a penalty score (see 8.6) being entered on the player’s behalf. Such scores are not to be deleted or modified by the player’s home club, unless exceptional circumstances warrant such action.

8.6 Penalty Scores

A penalty score is the lower gross score of:

a) 6 less than Par of the course plus the players Full handicap, or

b) The lowest of the players last 20 recorded scores

Each time a penalty score is allocated, either by computer system, or club handicapper, a test should be made according to Interim Revision rules (Refer Section 9.2.2)

8.7 How to Obtain Scores

The club must make it as easy as possible for players to turn in scores. The method used is up to the club. The place for returning scores should be convenient to players. For clubs providing computer terminals for entering scores, such terminals must be readily available at all times.

8.8 Posting Handicaps

Handicaps should be posted in an official handicap list on a board or rack in a prominent position. A pre-arranged schedule for posting revised handicaps should be announced in advance.

8.9 Working Records

It is advisable that the club handicapper’s actual working records be kept separate from posted records of scores and handicaps. Working records should contain at least the following information for each player:

a) Dates.

b) At least 20 differentials.

c) Totals or average of lowest differentials used.

d) Handicap assigned at each revision period.

8.10 Electronic Data Processing

Although a computer calculates most handicaps, the Handicap Committee is responsible for validating that all computed handicaps are a proper reflection of their member’s abilities.

8.11 Scoring Records Continuous

Scoring records shall be maintained continuously from year to year.

8.12 Player belonging to More Than One Club

a) A player may only receive a handicap at one club nominated by him of which he has full golfing membership and which is affiliated to a Member of either the SAGA or WGSA.

b) The player shall return to the nominated club all scores made at every club at which he is a member, together with Standard Ratings and dates.(See 8.1)

8.13 Player Changing Clubs

When a player changes clubs, he should give his new club a record of his last 20 differentials. They shall become part of his scoring record at his new club. If a player’s record is unavailable, he should use his last handicap at his former club until he has returned five scores to his new club and thus qualifies for a new handicap.

8.14 Records of Resigned Members

Clubs should preserve the scoring records of members who resign for at least one year after resignation. These records should be available, on request, to the former member’s new club. The handicap of a resigned member remains valid only until the next revision date at the club that issued it, except as provided for in Section 8.13.

8.15 Course Rating on Score Cards

The Standard Course Rating, or Ratings where there are more than one set of tees, should be printed prominently on the club scorecard.

Section 9 HANDICAP REVISIONS

9.1 Frequency of Revisions

a) Keep up to date

In order to be equitable, handicaps must always be kept up to date and must be revised monthly, on the last day of each month to become effective on the 1^st day of the following month. Handicapping Committees should however, use discretion to obviate undue fluctuating of handicaps.

Adjustments of marginal cases in terms of the Handicap Differential Chart may, for example, be delayed until the following revision. .

b) More Frequent if too Few Scores

When a player has fewer than 20 scores posted, his handicap should be revised more frequently than others to ensure that he is assigned a handicap fair to him and other players. The frequency of such revision is a matter for the committee in charge to determine.

c) Prolonged Absence from Golf

A player who discontinues golf for less than two years shall upon resuming play, use his last official handicap upon resuming play until the first revision period at which he qualifies for an

updated handicap. If he has discontinued golf for two years or more, he shall obtain a new handicap based upon his best single score of his first five rounds. This handicap shall be adjusted periodically according to the procedure laid down in Section 7. (See also 9.1(b) above)

9.2 Handicap Increases and Decreases

9.2.1 Standard System Applies

Subject to Section 9.2.4 below, a handicap shall be changed only as warranted by the standard computation system in this booklet. Handicap increases are limited to one (1) stroke per month.

There is no limit to the number of decreases per month.

9.2.2 Interim Revisions

A player’s handicap shall be recomputed each time a player achieves a net score of 3 less than Par for the course or better. For a course with a standard Par of 72, this figure would be 69 net or lower.

The handicap to be used to calculate a net score shall always be the player’s full handicap, irrespective of the format of competition.

If the calculation results in a lower handicap, such handicap shall become effective immediately. If the calculation results in a higher handicap, no change in handicap shall be made.

9.2.3 Unusual Situations

An increase shall not be granted arbitrarily because a player is temporarily off his game or has discontinued play. However, an exception may be made for temporary disability. Such increase should normally be limited to a maximum of two strokes.

9.2.4 Arbitrary Penalty

A handicap must be earned. No player has an inherent right to a handicap without providing full evidence of his or her ability.

A handicap may be arbitrarily reduced or increased if the player does not submit all his scores or otherwise does not observe the spirit of the Handicap System. The Committee in charge should be empowered to determine the amount of adjustment. In an extreme case of a player’s non-cooperation, withdrawal of the handicap is suggested.

9.3 Handicap to be used

a) Changes during Tournament

A player is required to use the handicap in effect at commencement of the first round of a multiple round Tournament. This will apply for all Club Championship, Provincial and National Tournaments. For other multiple round events, the organising committee may allow handicap changes that have occurred during the Tournament to be applied to relevant rounds.

b) For Eligibility Purposes

When a handicap is an eligibility requirement for admission into a tournament, a player’s eligibility from a handicap standpoint should depend on his handicap in effect on the date that his entry is filed.

Section 10 ALLOCATION OF HANDICAP STROKES

10.1 Principles; Possible Value to Recipient

A handicap stroke is, by nature, an equalizer and should be available on a hole where it is most likely to be needed.

In allocating the order of handicap strokes to the 18 holes of a golf course, consideration should be given to the likelihood of the strokes being of use as equalisers to the players receiving them. To accomplish this, the following is recommended:

a) Odd Strokes to First Nine

Assign the odd-numbered strokes to the holes on the first nine and the even- numbered strokes to the holes on the second nine. This equalizes as nearly as possible the distribution of handicap strokes over the entire 18 holes, making matches more equitable and helping in the playing off of matches ending in ties. In cases where the second nine is decidedly more difficult than the first nine, consideration may be given to allocating odd-numbered strokes to the second nine.

b) Basis of allocation

Allocate the first stroke to the hole on the first nine on which the higher- handicapped player most needs a stroke as an equalizer and the second stroke to the hole on the second nine on which the higher-handicapped player most needs a stroke as an equalizer. Continue alternating in this manner for the full 18 holes.

It is felt that the higher-handicapped player most needs strokes as equalizers on difficult par-5 holes, followed in sequence by difficult par-4s, other par-5s, other par-4s and finally par-3s. An exceptionally difficult par-3 might warrant being allocated a stroke before an exceptionally easy par-4 or par-5.

c) Importance of Early Strokes

When allocating the first handicap stroke, consideration should be given to its probable usefulness in matches between players of practically equal ability, such as those involving scratch and 1-handicap players, 10- and 11-handicap players, or 29- and 30- handicap players. It is in such matches that the first handicap stroke will be of the greatest importance as an equalizer to the player receiving it. In allocating the second handicap stroke, matches between players having a slightly greater difference in handicaps should be given the most consideration, such as those between players having scratch and 2 handicaps, 10 and 12 handicaps or 28 and 30 handicaps. This process should be continued until all strokes have been assigned.

d) Low Strokes not Near End

Without seriously violating the foregoing principles, allocation of the lower-numbered strokes to holes near the end of each nine should be avoided, as players on the receiving end would like to use their strokes before matches are lost.

e) Low Strokes not at Beginning

Conversely, it is desirable to avoid allocating the lower-numbered strokes to the first hole or two in the event of a sudden-death play-off in a handicap match.

10.2 Allocation of strokes for Plus handicap players

Plus handicap golfers must add a stroke to their gross score on certain holes according to the following rules for a standard layout:

a) +1 highest stroked Par 5 on course

b) +2 highest stroked Par 5 on opposite nine to a)

c) +3 highest stroked Par 4 on same nine as a)

d) +4 highest stroked Par 4 on same nine as b)

e) +5 remaining Par 5 on same nine as a)

f) +6 remaining Par 5 on same nine as b)

Courses with more than four Par 5’s apply c) and d) to their additional Par 5’s. Courses with less than four Par 5’s, apply similar principles to their additional Par 4’s. Courses with only one Par 5 apply a) irrespective of the actual stroke of the hole.

10.3 Nine-Hole Courses

These principles apply equally to a nine-hole course played twice consecutively for a stipulated 18-hole round.

10.4 Discretion of Committee

The recommended procedure for allocating handicap strokes is not mandatory since it has no effect on the size of the handicap itself. Because no formula can be established to cover conditions on every golf course, good judgment is of prime importance. The golf committee should review the course hole by hole bearing in mind the basic principle of equalizing the abilities of golfers in different handicap brackets. Common sense will dictate how closely the recommendations should be followed.

It is permissible for committees to use rounds played to calculate the relative difficulty of every hole. The recommended procedure is to use at least 500 rounds with players of varying ability. Ideally, scores for players with handicaps in excess of 18, should not be used. The relative difficulty of each hole is the average score, accurate to 3 decimal places, less the par allocation for that hole.

Section 11 HANDICAP ALLOWANCES

11.1 General

11.1.1 When to Take Strokes

A player receiving handicap strokes shall take them in the order assigned on the scorecard, except as noted otherwise below.

11.1.2 Plus Handicaps

When a player or a side has a plus handicap, the percentage allowances below will reduce it, not increase it. Example: 50% of a plus 2 handicap is plus 1.

In match play against par and in stroke play, a player or a side with a plus handicap shall add a handicap stroke to the hole, except as noted otherwise below.

11.1.3 Fraction of One-half and more

In all calculations a fraction of one-half or more shall count as a full stoke. Any other fraction shall be disregarded.

11.1.4 Handicaps Apply per 18 Holes

Handicaps are for 18 holes. Each allowance below applies as a unit to each 18-hole round, even though the competition may consist of more than one round.

11.2 Match Play

11.2.1 Singles Match Play - Allow the difference between the Full handicaps of the two players.

11.2.2 Singles Match Play vs. Par - Allow the Full handicap.

11.2.3 Four-Ball Match Play, Better Ball Basis - Each player is allocated ¾ of Full handicap. The lowest resultant handicapped player shall play off scratch and his handicap shall be deducted from each of the remaining three players.

11.2.4 Four-Ball Match Play vs. Par, Better Ball Basis - Allow each player ¾ of his Full handicap.

11.2.5 Alliance (Best-Ball-of-Four) Match Play vs. Par - Allow each player ¾ of his Full handicap.

11.2.6 Foursomes Match Play (not Four-Ball) - Allow the higher-handicapped side 50% of the difference between the combined full handicaps of the members of each side.

11.2.7 Greensomes Match Play - Allow the higher-handicapped side 40% of the difference between the combined Full handicaps of the members of each side.

11.2.8 Foursomes Match Play vs. par - Allow 50% of the partners’ combined Full handicaps.

11.2.9 Greensomes match Play vs. Par - Allow 40% of the partners’ combined Full handicaps.

11.3 Stroke Play

11.3.1 Individual Stroke Play - Allow the Full handicap. (A plus handicap shall be added to the gross score to determine the net score.)

11.3.2 Four-Ball Stroke Play, Better Ball Basis - Allow each competitor ¾ of his full handicap, strokes to be taken as allocated on the score card.

11.3.3 Alliance (Best-Ball-of-Four) Stroke Play - Allow each competitor ¾ of his full handicap, strokes to be taken as allocated on the scorecard.

11.3.4 Foursomes Stroke Play (not Four-Ball) - Allow 50% of the partners’ combined Full handicaps. (A plus handicap shall be added to the gross score to determine the net score.)

11.3.5 Greensomes Stroke Play - Allow 40% of the partners’ combined Full handicaps. (A plus handicap shall be added to the gross score to determine the net score.)

11.4 Total Scores of Partners (Aggregate)

Although not covered by the Rules of Golf, another form of Four-Ball play is as follows:

Two players from a side, each plays their own ball, and the combined total of their scores for each hole or round is the score for the side. This is usually referred to as an Aggregate Competition.

11.4.1 Match Play: Allow the higher-handicapped side the full difference between the

combined Full handicaps of the members of each side.

11.4.2 Stroke Play: Allow the partners’ Full combined handicaps

11.5 Players without South African handicaps

South African players who are not affiliated to either the SAGA or WGSA are outside the scope of this Handicapping System. Where such players compete against players with Full South African handicaps, it is recommended that in the absence of any handicap history, organizing committees allow men a maximum Full handicap of 24 and ladies a maximum Full handicap of 30.

11.6 Foreign Players

Players from other countries may present their Exact Handicap, which is normally calculated to one decimal place, to a club when entering a competition. In Better-Ball competitions, the player shall multiply the Exact Handicap by 0,75 and then round the result to the nearest whole number. For Individual competitions, the player shall round the Exact Handicap to the nearest whole number.

If the Exact Handicap is not known then players must use their Playing Handicap for Individual competitions and adjust their Playing Handicap according to the table in Section 11-8 for Better-Ball events.

11.7 Tables for ¾ handicap allowances

For all clubs using a computerised handicap system, the following table, similar to that in Section 6, details the exact differential ranges to be used to calculate a ¾ handicap allowance. Such handicap allowance is to be carried in the computer system along with the Full Handicap and must be clearly differentiated from the Full Handicap. Where possible, this handicap allowance should be indicated on member detail screens and/or computerised till slips.

HANDICAP DIFFERENTIAL CHART for ¾ HANDICAP ALLOWANCE

Total of Lowest

10 Differentials Handicap

Total of Lowest

10 Differentials Handicap

- 65 and less + 5

- 59 : - 47 + 4

- 46 : - 34 + 3

- 33 : - 20 + 2

- 19 : - 07 + 1

- 06 : 06 0

7 : 19 1

20 : 33 2

34 : 46 3

47 : 59 4

60 : 73 5

74 : 86 6

87 : 99 7

100 : 113 8

114 : 126 9

127 : 139 10

140 : 153 11

154 : 166 12

167 : 179 13

180 : 193 14

194 : 206 15

207 : 219 16

220 : 233 17

234 : 246 18

247 : 259 19

260 : 273 20

274 : 286 21

287 : 299 22

Men whose total exceeds 299 shall be

given an allowance of 23

300 : 312 23

311 : 326 24

327 : 339 25

340 : 352 26

Women whose total exceeds 352 shall be

given an allowance of 27

11.8 Conversion from Full to Better-Ball handicap allowance

All players without a South African handicap or an Exact Handicap (outside South Africa), must use the following table to convert from their Full handicap to a Better-Ball handicap allowance:

Handicap	+5	+4	+3	+2	+1	0	1	2	3	4	5	6
Better-Ball	+4	+3	+2	+2	+1	0	1	2	2	3	4	5

Handicap	7	8	9	10	11	12	13	14	15	16	17	18
Better-Ball	5	6	7	8	8	9	10	11	11	12	13	14

Handicap	19	20	21	22	23	24	25	26	27	28	29	30
Better-Ball	14	15	16	17	17	18	19	20	20	21	22	23

Handicap	31	32	33	34	35	36
Better-Ball	23	24	25	26	26	27

Section 12 HANDICAP CONTROLS

12.1 General

The scoring peculiarities of most golfers must be considered in order to produce equitable handicaps. This is why a handicap is not simply the difference between a player’s average score and the course rating. It is also why handicap controls are incorporated into the System as checks and balances to offset abnormal scoring.

Most of the handicap controls are automatic (rather than requiring special individual operation).

12.2 Controls in the System

Controls in the System include the following:

12.2.1 Highest Score Disregarded

The player’s highest scores are not to be used in computing the handicap since they do not represent the ability on which he should be handicapped.

12.2.2 Penalty for Fewer than 20 Scores

When a player has posted fewer than 20 scores, his handicap may be based on a lower percentage of scores than the 50% normally used (lowest 10 of the last 20). This anticipates his probable improvement if he plays more frequently, and is fairer to players who have returned 20 or more scores.

12.2.3 Arbitrary Penalty

Handicapping committees may, in their discretion, arbitrarily reduce or increase the handicaps of players who do not return all their scores or otherwise do not observe the spirit of the Handicap System. In exceptional circumstances, the Handicapping Committee may, after following due process, withdraw the handicap of a player for a period not to exceed 3 months.

12.3 Responsibilities of Handicapping Committee

The Handicapping Committee is responsible for the equitable application of all handicap rules and controls; in particular it is required to ensure that the following points are adhered to:

12.3.1 All scores are correctly and timeously captured and returned by all players

12.3.2 Omitted scores that would have resulted in a handicap decrease for a player are entered as penalty scores (refer to Section 8.6) and the handicap for that player immediately recalculated.

12.3.3 That repeated good scores by a player are properly reflected by an appropriate reduction in handicap.

12.3.4 A prolonged period of exceptional performance, without a corresponding reduction in handicap is reviewed according to Section 12-4 below. The committee may impose a condition of competition that all players are to adjust their gross scores according to the rules under Exceptional Performance in Section 12.4

12.3.5 That in Better-Ball competitions, any player achieving 3 Stableford points (or equivalent) on more than four holes, is reviewed according to Section 12-4 below.

12.3.6 That particularly high (or low) scores in non-competition rounds, or rounds played away from the home club, contributing to the handicap calculation are disregarded and the handicap recalculated omitting these scores. If this results in a significant change to the handicap, this recalculated handicap should become effective immediately.

12.3.7 It is the responsibility of the club handicapper to ensure that the spirit of the system is upheld and that any perceived manipulation of handicaps be thoroughly investigated and suitable disciplinary measures applied to proven offenders. Such action includes immediate reduction or withdrawal of a handicap.

12.4 Exceptional Performance.

There may be cases where a player frequently wins Better-Ball competitions, yet posts net scores that result in little or no handicap change. In these cases the Handicapper shall apply the following formula to such player’s Better-Ball gross scores:

RG = S + A - P

Where RG = Revised Gross, S = Standard Rating, A=Allowance, P=No. Pars

A is calculated as 18 + (Par of Course – Standard Rating). If the player’s handicap exceeds 18, then A is further adjusted by adding (Handicap – 18) to A.

P is the total number of Pars made by the player in a round. Each Birdie is to count as two Pars and each Eagle to count as three Pars.

Should the Revised Gross (RG) be less than the Gross Score recorded on the player’s card, then the Revised Gross shall be substituted for the Gross Score. When this gross is altered, the resultant net score should be tested for Interim Revision (Refer Section 9.2.2)

Part 3 COURSE RATING

Section 13 PURPOSE, BASIS AND RESPONSIBILITY

13.1 Purpose of Course Rating

The purpose of course Rating is to provide a uniform comparative basis for the computation of handicaps between clubs wherever situated. Course Rating is expressed in strokes.

13.2 Basis of Course Rating

Distance and the ability of the scratch golfer are the prime considerations in Course Rating. Altitude and course conditions other than length are also used in the assessment. (See Definition 3.1)

13.3 Responsibility for Assessment of Course Ratings

Initial Standard Rating calculations and subsequently required revisions due to course changes may only be done by Provincial Unions and shall be assessed by Provincial Union representatives for all courses in their respective areas. Clubs may not allocate their own rating, but may temporarily modify a rating as specified in Section 14.4.

Applications for Initial Allocation or Amendments to Course Ratings shall be made to Provincial Unions by member clubs.

13.4 Responsibility of Clubs

It is recommended that, where possible, all Clubs affiliated to either SAGA/WGSA equate the par of the course to the officially assessed SAGA/WGSA Standard Rating. In all cases the officially assessed SAGA/WGSA Standard Ratings must appear on the scorecard. (See Section 8.15)

Section 14 METHOD OF ASSESSMENT OF COURSE STANDARD RATING

14.1 Length Rating

Length Rating is determined by applying a Length Rating formula to the total length of a course in metres. The course must be measured accurately as an error of only 20 metres in the overall measurement would change the rating by 0,1 of a stroke. The formulae are as follows:

14.1.1 For Men

Length of Course in Metres

Length Rating = 201 + 40.9

Example: If the length of course is 6 035 metres,

6 035

Length Rating = 201 + 40.9

= 30.02 + 40.9

= 70.92

14.1.2 For Women

Length of Course in Metres

Length Rating = 165 + 40.1

Example: If the length of course is 5 265 metres,

5 265

Length Rating = 165 + 40.1

= 31.91 + 40.1

= 72.01

14.2 Altitude factor

An adjustment for altitude is made by reducing the Length Rating by 0,20 for every 100 metres, or part thereof, over 500 metres above sea level.

14.3 Rating Adjustment Factors

Due to the contrast between older and more modern course designs the Length Rating is insufficient to properly assess the typical score a scratch golfer would achieve on a given course. Golf Unions should assess each course under their jurisdiction and if necessary apply all of the factors detailed below in order to arrive at a fair adjustment to the Length Rating so that all golfers in their area are playing off equitable handicaps. A modern course that is well bunkered and has many raised and sloping greens bears little comparison to a more traditional layout with few bunkers and relatively flat greens, even though both courses may be similar in length.

If modification is deemed advisable, it should be made in tenths of a stroke. Modification normally should not exceed one stroke for the whole course, either plus or minus, thus allowing a two-stroke spread. Any modification in excess of this suggested limit should be applied only in extreme cases.

The following conditions are to be considered as possible grounds for adjustment:

a) Overall tightness of course: narrow holes may necessitate the sacrificing of distance to achieve greater control, whereas wide, open fairways may invite power strokes with little concern for accuracy.

b) Absence of trees between adjacent fairways: open courses with little rough may allow a player to more easily effect recovery strokes

c) Fairway target areas: width, slope, and general condition: again, distance may be sacrificed for control - the normal fairway width of 30 metres offers a fair target for a full tee shot, whereas a fairway width of less than 25 metres is a much more challenging target..

d) Difficulties near target areas: location and nature of rough, proximity of out of bounds, and number and location of water hazards, bunkers, trees, and bushes.

e) Putting greens: size, location, visibility, contours, and general condition - greens may be small and hard making them difficult to hit; larger greens may result in more than two putts; subtle breaks, which are difficult to read, may increase the average number of putts per round.

f) Ground slope: on hilly courses, uphill and downhill holes tend to balance out, but hanging lies and fairway contours may make general conditions more difficult.

NOTE: The Standard Rating is the Length Rating unless this has been adjusted by the application of difficulty factors as detailed above. The final Standard Rating (SR) must be rounded to the nearest whole number.

14.4 Temporary Adjustments to Course Rating

On any day that the positions of the tee-markers and pins are such that the course is temporarily shortened or otherwise altered from that on which the official Standard Rating is assessed, the committee may apply an appropriate adjustment to the Rating in line with the formula for derivation of the Length Rating.

Should these conditions persist for a period exceeding 7 days, it is obligatory for the committee to obtain approval from the Provincial Union, both for the adjustment and for the length of time this temporary rating will be in effect.

The Committee of a Club may, at its discretion, temporarily adjust the official Standard Rating for any day or days upon which abnormal climatic conditions of play exist. This rating will be automatically adjusted by computerised systems, provided that at least 24 players complete rounds in either or both the AM and PM fields.

14.5 Minimum length for a Course Rating

For a course to be rated it must have a minimum overall length of 3 500 metres.

Section 15 MEASUREMENTS

15.1 Starting Point; Permanent Markers

The Starting point from which each hole is measured is the middle of the teeing area commonly used. Opposite this starting point a permanent rating marker must be installed at the side of the tee.

15.2 How to Measure

Each hole must be accurately measured from permanent rating marker along the planned line of play to the centre of the green. The planned line of play is that envisaged by the architect in the laying out of the hole. Thus in a dogleg hole the line at the elbow point should be centred in the fairway as intended by the architect.

15.3 Certificate of Measurement

A certificate from a land Surveyor showing the measurement of the length of the course and its mean altitude where this exceeds 500 metres must be obtained and submitted to the Provincial Union (it is recommended that the measurement be done by an Electronic Distance Meter).

15.4 More than One Set of Tees

If more than one set of tees are in common use, measurements and rating markers shall be established for each and application made for separate Course Ratings.

Where a club wishes in addition to have a rating for the greatest playing length of the course this shall be measured from a point 4 metres from the back of each tee along the planned line of play to the centre of the green. This rating will be known as the Championship Rating.

15.5 Colours of Rating and Tee Markers

The Rating Markers and Tee markers for the Course Rating based on a measurement in accordance with Section 15-2 above should be coloured White.

The Rating Markers and Tee markers for the Course Rating of the women’s course measured in accordance with Section 15-2 above should be coloured Red.

The Tee Markers for tees used as forward tees in terms of section 19 should be coloured Blue.

Where a club has a Championship Rating the Rating Markers and Tee Markers should be coloured Yellow.

15.6 Nine-Hole Courses

On a nine-hole course, if separate tees markers are used for each nine of an 18-hole round, separate measurements and permanent rating markers must be established for each nine.

Section 16 PROVINCIAL UNION RECORDS

16.1 Information to be kept

A complete file on the rating(s) of each course should be kept by the Provincial Unions for future reference, including each revision to the club’s scorecard and any other relevant data.

16.2 List of All Ratings

Provincial Unions should periodically compile a list of ratings and send this to every Member Club. This will assist in recording scores made away from home.

Part 4 SAGA AND WGSA SPECIFIC ITEMS

Section 17 WGSA SILVER AND BRONZE MEDAL COMPETITIONS

17.1 Description and Basic Rules

17.1.1 The competition is for all amateur Club members, who are affiliated to a Provincial Union. It is played in two divisions:

a) The Silver Medal division for players of handicap 18 or less

b) The Bronze Medal division for players of handicap 19 to 36

17.1.2 A player may compete, and is eligible to win a medal, at every club of which she is a member

17.1.3 The Club Committee shall decide on the entrance fee, prizes and the method of deciding ties for such prizes

17.2 Conditions of Play

The competition extends over a period of one calendar year, commencing on the first day of January in each year. Each round consists of 18 holes stroke play, played on the current handicap.

17.3 Number of Rounds

17.3.1 Each year Clubs shall set fixed dates on which the 12 (maximum) medal rounds are to be played. A Trophy Event, or the first round of a 36-hole event, or both rounds if played over two days, provided the competition is stroke play, can be designated.

17.3.2 The rounds may not be combined with any event that excludes any medal player in either division, or includes only a section of either division e.g. limiting the event to players with handicaps of 24 or less.

17.3.3 Should a stipulated round have to be cancelled, and provided a minimum of 8 rounds have been or will be played during the year, it is not necessary to set an alternative date.

17.4 Club records and Calculation

17.4.1 Clubs shall keep accurate records of players’ scores

17.4.2 A player must return a minimum of four net scores during the year. The four counting scores must all be in the same division.

17.4.3 To determine the winner, after the last round of the year, the player’s lowest 4 net scores are added together and divided by 4 to obtain an average. Fractions count.

17.4.4 If two or more competitors, in the same Club, tie, each shall receive a medal.

17.4.5 In the same Club, the win of a Silver Medal by a player supersedes the win of a Bronze Medal. The Bronze Medal will then be awarded to the player with the next lowest average score.

17.4.6 Club Secretaries shall notify the Provincial Union Secretary of the results as soon as possible.

Section 18 WGSA GENERAL REGULATIONS

18.1 Provincial Authority

Provincial Authorities are required to ensure that Clubs are complying with WGSA Regulations and are correctly operating the system of handicapping

18.2 Conditions of Play

Clubs shall appoint a member (or members) of the club (who need not necessarily be members of the Women’s Committee) to be the authority for handicapping.

18.3 Home Club Qualifications and Privileges

18.3.1 The Club which any player has nominated as her Home Club and where her handicap is computed (See Section 7) shall remain so until she nominates another Club of which she is a member as Home Club. Such nomination may only be made by giving notice, in writing, to the Secretaries of the present and intended Home Clubs, not later than 31 December in any year, to take effect on 1 January the following year, unless:

18.3.1.1 She ceases to reside in the town in which her Home Club is situated

18.3.1.2 She resigns from her Home Club

18.3.2 The newly appointed Home Club authority shall be responsible for informing the Provincial Union of all new Home Club members.

18.3.3 No member may serve on the Committee, or otherwise represent any Club other than her Home Club, except with the consent of the Home Club and Provincial Union. Consent must be applied for annually.

18.4 Provincial Qualification

No member is eligible for selection to a Provincial team unless she has been or will have been a Home Club member in that Province/Region for a minimum period of three months immediately prior to the date on which the event commences. The member would still be eligible for her previous Union during the stipulated three-month eligibility period provided she remains a member of a Club in that Union.

An exception to this qualification is when a player is furthering her education at an institution outside her home union and where her golf opportunities are improved by moving her home club to one within the province of study. During this period the player may, with agreement from either her previous home club and/or the union, retain affiliation and continue to represent her original home union.

18.5 National Qualification

Any player, who is a bona fide South African citizen, may be selected to represent South Africa.

Section 19 SAGA USE OF FORWARD TEES

19.1 Eligibility

Providing that a club has forward tees, to assist players over the age of 65 to overcome long carries over water or rough, the club may, on application from a player, allow such player to play off specified forward tees.

19.2 Purpose

The purpose of this concession is to allow players to remain competitive in advancing years where length off the tee has become a problem. This concession should not be granted to players who are capable of playing off the normal club rated tees.

Forward tees should only be positioned where it is necessary to obviate the difficulty of driving over long carries of water or rough.

19.3 Course Rating to be used

A player who has been granted this concession must be handicapped as normal using the Standard Rating of the day as given by the normal club tee rating. Where applicable, this will be over-ridden by the Calculated Rating.

19.4 Notes

19.4.1 This does not replace a course that has been temporarily shortened by the club. e.g. for temporary greens, senior competition or the like. In these examples a rating should be allocated for that particular day by the club in terms of Section 14.

19.4.2. Players who have been granted this concession may not arbitrarily move back to playing off the rated tees.

19.4.3. Should a player who is handicapped off forward tees play on a course that does not have forward tees, he shall play off his allocated home club handicap. i.e. no adjustment may be made to a player’s official handicap.

19.4.4. The club handicap committee may withdraw this concession at any stage should a player abuse the concession or be found capable of continuing play off normal club rated tees.

19.4.5 This concession is not a right of a player who has turned 65 years of age and should not be given to a player who continues to play competitive golf.