The biggest problem with planning a handicapped golf trip or event is that most weekend golfers don’t have an official or unofficial handicap.
Unfortunately, an official USGA-qualified handicap costs between $20-$60 per year and requires you to be a member of a golf club (but not necessarily a “country club”). While this probably isn’t going to break the bank, you don’t need an official handicap unless you plan to play in local club events, state golf association events, or USGA events. However, knowing your accurate handicap is a great way to make your golf matches and trips more competitive!
If you do plan on playing in events requiring a USGA handicap, check out USHandicap.com to get your official USGA handicap online for $30. This works great if you’re in a pinch and need your official handicap before you tee off in the morning!
You can also use an app called TheGrint, which allows you to track scores, keep stats, and use its built-in course GPS feature. While unofficial handicap tracking is free, you can convert it into a USGA-compliant handicap for $20 per year.
If you’re content with being unofficial, but still want to know your handicap (it’s probably lower than you think!) or want others in your golf group to calculate their handicap before the big golf trip, my free Buds & Birdies Handicap Calculator allows you to update and track your handicap from anywhere without having to give any pesky apps your information!
Once you open the Google Sheet, all you have to do is select “File” then “Make a copy” and this baby is all yours! You can access it from anywhere using the Google Sheets App on your phone or going to your Google Drive on your PC. The formulas are protected, but if you’d like to explore them or make any adjustments, no password is required to unlock them!
Since this handicap calculator is for your personal reference, be honest with yourself. Play by USGA rules (no mulligans) or alternate rules and report ALL of your scores, no matter how good or bad. Remember, the new maximum strokes-per-hole limit is a net-double bogey (so move on to the next hole after knocking three in the pond!).
If you’re REALLY interested in how handicapping and my Handicap Calculator is calculated, check out the World Handicap System and how it is designed to slow down cheats!
How do you track your handicap? Please leave a comment!
Buds and Birdies Golf 