WORLDWIDE HANDICAP SYSTEMFixed Elements

The goal was to build, as far as possible, a more strict single system of fixed elements, before accepting the inclusion of optional “menu” items aimed at allowing each different golfing jurisdiction the ability to help shape the system to fit the golfing culture in its area.

The areas where flexibility or a menu will be allowed will contain a broad listing of items, such as formats of competition and acceptability of scores for handicap purposes, from which to select for use.

The agreed upon key principles have guided the work.

PROPOSALFixed Elements for a new Worldwide Golf Handicap System

Section 1-1 Purpose – The purpose of the USGA Handicap System is to make the game of golf more enjoyable by enabling players of differing abilities to compete on an equitable basis…

PURPOSE of Golf Handicap Systems

Official Baseball RulesMajor League Baseball, 2011

The infield shall be a 90-foot square. The outfield shall be the area between two foul lines formed by extending two sides of the square. The distance from home base to the nearest fence, stand or other obstruction on fair territory shall be 250 feet or more. A distance of 320 feet or more along the foul lines, and 400 feet or more to center field is preferable. The infield shall be graded so that the base lines and home plate are level. The pitcher’s plate shall be 10 inches above the level of home plate. The degree of slope from a point 6 inches in front of the pitcher’s plate to a point 6 feet toward home plate shall be 1 inch to 1 foot, and such degree of slope shall be uniform.

FIXED ELEMENTSWorldwide Golf Handicap System

Official Baseball RulesMajor League Baseball, 2011

It is desirable that the line from home base through the pitchers plate to second base shall run East-Northeast.

It is recommended that the distance from home base to the backstop, and from the base lines to the nearest fence, stand or other obstruction on foul territory shall be 60 feet or more.

The Worldwide Golf Handicap System will include scores from all formats and types of play included on the “menu” list of acceptable scores. Each authority, at its discretion, will select which formats and types of scores are to be acceptable for handicap purposes.

FLEXIBILITY (MENU)Worldwide Golf Handicap System