On January 1, 2020, the World Handicap System officially launched in the United States, delivering the first universal Rules of Handicapping for all golfers. For the first time in the U.S., every Handicap Index will now be computed through a centralized database to ensure consistency and integrity in every number. 

On January 6th, golfers will receive their first revision under the World Handicap System. The new calculation will average the 8 best of your most recent 20 differentials. Because of the new calculation, your Handicap Index is likely to have a slight change.

The new GHIN platform and updated GHIN Mobile App will also launch on January 6. The GHIN Mobile App will require an update, so be sure to update it if you don’t have automatic updates turned on. If you have not downloaded the GHIN Mobile App, it is strongly encouraged that you do for score posting, daily revision updates, and calculating your Course Handicap.

As part of the rollout, the WPGA will be conducting free workshops this Spring throughout our jurisdiction to educate Handicap Committee Chairs, club staff, WPGA Members and the general public. The workshops will include a continental breakfast before the workshop and lunch after the workshop. All workshops will begin at 9:00 AM with sign-in starting at 8:15 AM. Registration is required to attend. Below is the current schedule:

Feb. 26, Wildwood Golf Club (Only Open to the TSPGA), Allison Park, PA

March 4, Chartiers Country Club, Pittsburgh, PA

March 11, The Country Club of Meadville, Meadville, PA

March 18, Indiana Country Club, Indiana, PA

March 25, Centre Hills Country Club, State College, PA

April 1, Sunnehanna Country Club, Johnstown, PA

April 8, Pinecrest Country Club, Brookville, PA

Included in the Rules of Handicapping is a Club Authorization requirement that requires a member of the club, i.e. Handicap Committee Chair, to attend a workshop on the World Handicap System and pass a quiz showing proficiency prior to June 30, 2020. The quiz will be administered at the conclusion of the workshop.

Registration for the WHS Educational Workshops will open on January 8. To register online, visit the Event Registration tab of the WPGA Website. You can also call the WPGA Office at 412.826.2180 or email tmanwaring@wpga.org to register.

To learn more about the World Handicap System, visit our WHS Hub here.