We had all expected the new handicapping system (WHS) to be old news by the 2021 season but due to COVID lockdowns, players are only just coming to terms with WHS as they return to golf in Spring of 2021.
The same can be said for the software providers and England Golf as they too have only had the chance to react to feedback once that feedback began flowing in to them. As such the systems still have few wrinkles to iron out for example mixed competitions are not ready as of May 2021.
However, members have had the opportunity to play using their index and should at least be getting used to the differences between the handicap index, the course index and the playing handicaps. Also, players are able to access up to date information about their playing record and index calculations via How Did I Do or the My Golf websites.
Anyone needing help accessing these sites or indeed any questions relating to WHS should contact the handicap committee by e-mailing handicaps@cnpgc.co.uk
One of many differences between the old and new handicapping methods is that under WHS, every set of tees for the front 9 holes, back 9 holes or 18 holes has a separate course rating. All of the tables to allow members to work out their course indexes is displayed outside of the Pro-Shop, on the wall, under the canopy. For members playing in formal competitions, there is no need for such tables or calculations as the Club V1 system we use will already have your playing handicap calculated for you once you register your intention to play in the Pro-shop terminal in the clubhouse.
One final difference of note is not only that members are encouraged to play as many handicap qualifying rounds as possible but that when playing a ‘Casual Round’ once the intention that you are playing one has been recorded it is essential that the process is completed by keying in the score. Not to do so is being viewed as unethical and clubs are receiving reports of players not entering their scores with the expectation that action is taken to resolve why the round score was not keyed. A ‘Casual Round’ is just a formal way of saying it is a handicap qualifying round that is not being played as part of a club competition.
Once allowed, it remains the intention to hold Q&A sessions in the clubhouse to deal with member’s concerns or issues. More will follow as time progresses. In the meantime ANY concerns can be relayed to handicaps@cnpgc.co.uk for a response.
Please take note of the England Golf WHS privacy notice:WHS Privacy Notice
View Crow Nest Park GC - WHS Course & Slope Rating here
Thank You
The Handicaps and Competitions Committees