Ask Linda #9 - post scores, match play or better ball

Dear Linda,
I’m confused about recording my scores when I’m playing in a match play tournament. Don’t I have to complete every hole to post an acceptable score? How can I record a score for a hole on which I have been told to pick up the ball?
Lulu

Dear Lulu,

The USGA requires you to post scores in all types of competitions, including match play, stroke play, and even team competitions (such as better-ball) when you are asked to pick up. So what’s a fella (or gal) to do? It’s really quite simple. Any time you pick up before a hole is completed, you record the score you most likely would have had for the hole had you finished it. For example, if you are off the green within chipping distance, add three strokes to your score (you can always assume one chip and two putts). If you are on the green facing a sizable putt, add two strokes to your score. And if you are close to the hole (we’ll trust your judgment on this), add one stroke. No problema.

If you don’t play all 18 holes, but play at least 13, then the score you will record for those holes that you did not play will be par plus any handicap strokes you would receive on those holes. For example, if your course handicap is 12, and you don’t play the par 5 #18 hole that is described on the score card as the sixth hardest hole, your score for that hole would be 6.

Linda

P.S. Just a little reminder from Uncle Snoopy the handicap hound that you should be posting your scores at the club immediately after your round. If this is not practical, then you need to let your fingers do the walking on your computer and post your score on the GHIN.com website when you get home. Handicaps are revised every two weeks on the GHIN system, and your numbers will not accurately reflect your present skill level if you delay posting.

Copyright © 2008 Linda Miller. All rights reserved.