Linda,
Correct handicap written on card: Does this have to be
known before the game, or before card is signed?
We had a competition, with winning scores that indicated
those players were likely to have a handicap reduction.
Whilst it is desirable to process cards into the computer
immediately (to post new handicaps), this is not always possible.
On a recent occasion, a new competition (same players
mainly) was starting as the previous cards were being processed. The players
were aware of this. When the new handicap list was printed, some of the
competitors whose handicaps had reduced were informed of the new handicap
before they teed off. A message was left for those who had already teed off,
notifying them that the list was available and posted in the clubhouse.
We were informed by several of the players that this was
unfair to those informed before teeing off (if it can be unfair to play off
your correct handicap) because the rule was that those who had already teed off
did not have to put in the correct, reduced handicaps, as they had not been
available before they set off.
This was Stableford, not match play, so I question if this
is correct. Surely players are required to ensure that the cards have the
correct handicap before signing it and returning it after the competition,
when the correct and revised handicaps were available. Not knowing it before
setting off is inconvenient, but surely not relevant.
What is the correct position?
Lou from Wales, UK
Dear Lou,
Stableford is a stroke-play competition. In stroke play, the
player must record his handicap on the scorecard before he submits it to the
Committee at the end of his round
[Rule 6-2b]. Your understanding is correct. All players must record the
handicap from the same update.
Linda
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