Ask Linda #144-Maximum Handicap Index

Hey Linda,
Can you give an explanation for why the USGA sets a maximum index/handicap to be used in tournaments/competitions? We have a very small Ladies’ Golf Association with a lot of beginner/high handicap golfers. They constantly want to know why they only get a maximum of 43 course handicap (40 index) in our competitions. We have used the 95% rule in our member-guest and received very negative feedback.
Thank you,
Lulu

Dear Lulu,

This was an unusual question, Lulu, and one that I have never pondered. I had to consult the USGA handicap department to find an answer for you. Here is what I learned:

The USGA has a Handicap Research Team. That team was responsible for setting the maximum Handicap Index® limits of 36.4 for men and 40.4 for women.

The reason for setting a limit is that players whose Handicap Index is higher than those limits have very unpredictable scores. Because of that, they are quite capable of shooting a net score that is so low that a player whose Handicap Index is below the maximum number (36.4 or 40.4) has little chance to beat them.

Setting a maximum Handicap Index is one of the many ways in which the USGA handicap system attempts to level the playing field for everyone.

That being said, players are permitted to have a local handicap that exceeds these limits [The USGA Handicap System, Section 3-4]. That handicap would have to be identified with an “L” on their handicap card (e.g., 42.6L). Your ladies could compete with their full, local handicap in league play at your club. If they compete against ladies from other clubs, however, the USGA recommendation is to reduce the handicaps to the maximum Handicap Index.

When you conduct a member-guest tournament, you have invited players from other clubs. In the interest of fair play to everyone, no player should receive more than the maximum Handicap Index. Assuming you are conducting a four-ball (also known as “better ball”) tournament, then the 95% of Course Handicap allowance that you have established is the correct USGA-recommended allowance for this format for women (men would receive 90% of their Course Handicap).

Linda

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