To play in most events at Norbeck, you must establish a World Handicap System (WHS) handicap. WHS is the unified, global ruleset for calculating handicaps. It was finally established worldwide in 2021. Use this link to find out more… WHS (World Handicap System)
It only takes 54 holes – any combination of 9 and 18-hole scores – to establish a Handicap Index and be a part of the WHS. Once you’ve posted 54 holes, you will have an official Handicap Index!
GHIN (Pronounced “gin”) is a tool you use to enter your scores. GHIN (Golf Handicap and Information Network) GHIN is a specific technology platform and service provided by the USGA and many local associations to calculate, store, and manage your WHS handicap.
To Maintain an Accurate Handicap
- Submit scores before midnight on the day you play. Your handicap index will stay the same, go up or go down based on your 8 best scores out of the past 20 scores.
- All golf rounds must be entered in the handicap system from March 15 through November 30 in Maryland. Some still believe our season ends on Nov 15, but it ends on Nov 30!
- When you travel and play rounds of golf in the U.S. and Internationally, you follow the established GHIN season dates. For example, Florida’s season is year-round, so if you play a round there, you should post your scores to your existing Maryland profile even though Maryland is “inactive” from Dec 1 – March 14. For the United States, “active” GHIN handicap seasons vary by state based on the climate. For warmer climates you enter scores year-round (e.g., FL, TX, AZ, SC, GA). For states with significantly cold winters, you enter scores between April and November.
- 9-hole scores (1-9 or 10-18) are automatically calculated as an 18-hole score differential and added to your record immediately.
- Net Double Bogey is the maximum score for handicap purposes remains net double bogey (Par + 2 + strokes received). This does not apply to tournaments – you must “hole-out” during a tournament and enter your actual number of strokes into GHIN. Ask about rules if you are uncertain.
The following events require a WHS handicap and posting:
- Ladies’ Days
- Invitationals
- Beat the Pro
- Tournaments
- Member Guest
- Match Play: Norbeck Open
- Team Matches: WDCGA, M-PG, MD State
- Wednesday night league
- Any other tournaments where you play your own ball throughout
Note: Twilight Niners does NOT require a handicap to participate.