Rules and Handicap Committee

Pat Newmark

Recently our committee sent a letter to all members concerning the topic of posting handicaps. A few questions were posed and I would like to address them. Like most people, I hate being told what to do…especially if I think that it’s arbitrary. Usually, though, I don’t mind if I understand what is behind the situation.

First, please understand that handicapping is an integral part of the game we play. If we were all scratch players we wouldn’t need handicaps…but we’re not and the handicap system is what levels the playing field and allows us to play one another in competitions. Asking a player to post his score after every round is not a Draconian measure…it is simple a way to ensure that we all are playing each other fairly. The USGA publishes “The USGA Handicapping System,” a manual which is analogous to “The Rules of GOLF.” In Section 1 it states:

“Two basic premises underline the USGA Handicap System, namely that each player will try to make the best score at every hole in every round, Regardless of where the round is played, and that the player will post every acceptable round for peer review. The player and the player’s Handicap Committee have joint responsibility for adhering to these premises.”

We have had a few instances of members not following the handicapping rules and I am certain that it is not a matter of people trying to unfairly manipulate their handicaps, but rather a matter of them being unsure of the rules. The Handicap Committee is trying to educate our membership on the proper manner for posting their scores. As our members become accustomed on proper posting of their scores, I’m sure that it will simply become part of the culture of RSFGC…a culture that embraces the history and integrity of the game and its players.

There have also been many questions regarding the change in posting of scores from a round played alone. One of the primary reasons for this is that the USGA is attempting to mirror the R&A’s handicapping rules. Except for a few spelling differences, our rules books are identical. No matter where you play or who you play, the rules are the same. We are trying to do the same with handicaps. That way you can carry your handicap anywhere in the world and know that it will be fair and competitive. Since peer review is an integral part of the handicap system, our rule was changed to match the R&A’s. I hope this answers some concerns. If you have any questions, please convey them to the Rules and Handicap Committee. We sincerely want Rancho Santa Fe to be perceived as one of the finest golf clubs in the country and we want you to be an integral part of that process.

Reminder…

When enjoying dinner at the Club, please remember that the Golf Course is not intended to be used as a playground for children. The greens are particularly sensitive and easily damaged; please make sure your children use the lawn areas adjacent to the dining patios only and are not disruptive to other diners.

Also, please remember our dress code in the club house allows for very casual attire, however, torn jeans, tank tops, bare midriffs are not appropriate attire when visiting the clubhouse. For complete details on appropriate dress for the clubhouse please see the Dress Code Reminder tab on the Home Page.

Thank you,