2019 Congu Manual

ppendix
Amended 1st December 2018 – Details on Page 10

C O N G U ® U N I F I E D H A N D I C A P P I N G S Y S T E M
2016 – 2019
Cover photograph – Fairhaven Golf Club
2
The Composition of the Council of National Golf Unions Limited (‘CONGU’)

CONGU is a company limited by guarantee. Its membership is comprised of two representatives from
each of England Golf, Wales Golf and Scottish Golf Ltd, and one representative from each of Golfing
Union of Ireland and the Irish Ladies’ Golf Union Ltd, together with a representative from both the Royal
and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews and the Ladies’ Golf Union Championships Ltd and an elected
Chairman.
Board Members (2017):
Chairman: Bob Carrick

(replaced Jim McArthur June 2017)
England Golf: Gemma Hunter
Richard Flint
Wales Golf: Val Franklin
Trefor Davies
Golfing Union of Ireland: Jerome Clancy
Irish Ladies’ Golf Union Ltd: Roma English
Scottish Golf Ltd (formally Scottish Calum Grant
Golf Union Ltd and Scottish Ladies’ June McEwan
Golfing Association Ltd):
R&A: Stuart Graham
LGU Championships Ltd: Ann Brown
Technical Committee:
Bob Carrick (Chair); Trefor Davies; Jean Jones; Anne Mahon; Jim Mooney, Lynne Terry; Gemma
Hunter; Ruth Goodwin; Peter Austerberry; Liz Gaertner; Val Franklin; Sam Burton
Jim Fisher (Technical Administrator)
Secretary: Fiona Hastie

e-mail: secretary@congu.com
Website: www.congu.com
Correspondence: Please refer to above website for address.
Overseas Affiliates:
Kenya Golf Union, Ivory Coast Golf Federation, The Fajara Club - Gambia, Malta Golf Association,
North Cyprus, Tanzania and Zambia (Ladies), British and Commonwealth Women's Club of Brussels,
Uganda Golf Union, Mauritius Golf Federation, Bahrain Golf Association, Sudan Golf Association,
Saudi Arabian Golf Federation, Ghana Golf Association, Egypt Golf Federation, Qatar Golf
Association, Botswana Golf Union.
3
CONTENTS
Page
Foreword 6
How to Use the Manual 7
Principal Changes 8
PART ONE INTRODUCTION
1 Purpose: Operation 14
2 Definitions 15
PART TWO RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
3 Rights and Responsibilities of the Council of National Golf Unions 21

4 Rights and Responsibilities of the Union 22
5 Rights and Responsibilities of the Area Authority 24
6 Responsibilities of the Affiliated Club 24
7 Responsibilities of the Handicap Committee 26
8 Responsibilities of the Player 27
PART THREE THE GOLF COURSE / STANDARD SCRATCH SCORE / COURSE RATING
9 Standard Scratch Score 32

10 Establishing Par 33
11 Course Measurement 33
12 New Courses and Alterations to Existing Courses 34
13 Permitted Adjustments to a Measured Course 34
14 Tees 34
15 Preferred Lies 35
PART FOUR HANDICAPPING
16 Allotment of Handicaps 38
17 Qualifying Scores / Qualifying Competitions 40
18 Competition Scratch Score 43
19 Stableford / Nett Double Bogey Adjustment 46
20 Alteration of Handicaps 47
21 Supplementary Scores 49
22 Nine Hole Qualifying Competitions 50
23 Review of Handicaps 52
24 Suspension and Loss of Handicap 59
25 Status of Handicap 60
26 Regaining a Handicap 60
PART FIVE APPENDICES
A Golf Course Measurement 64

B Competition Scratch Score Procedure 66
Competition Scratch Score Tables 69
C Stableford / Nett Double Bogey Adjustment 74
D Par and Stableford Conversion Table 75
E Table of Handicap Adjustments 76
F Handicap Allowances for Different Formats of Competition 77
Greensomes Handicap Conversion Table 79
G Handicap Stroke Index 81
H Computer Software Requirements 82
4
I Player Handicap Information 83

- Specimen Player Handicap Record 83
- Summary of Scores Table 86
J CONGU® Club Handicaps 87
K Handicaps for Players with Disabilities 88
L UHS Compliance Checklist 89
M Guidelines for Annual Review / General Play Adjustment 90
N Resolution of Ties 91
O Events in Which Competitors Play from Different Sets of Tees 92
P Disqualified Scores in Qualifying Competitions 96
Q Advice on running the Continuous Handicap Review 99
PART SIX DECISIONS
Index to Decisions 102

1 Qualifying Competitions – Clause 17 108
2 Qualifying Scores – Clause 17 110
3 Competition Scratch Score – Clause 18 110
4 Alteration of Handicaps – Clause 20 110
5 Review of Handicaps – Clause 23 111
6 Handicap Allowance – Appendix F 111
7 Golf Course 112
8 Categories of Golf Club Membership 113
INDEX 114
5
FOREWORD
CONGU® has recently announced changes to the UHS system which will come into force on the 1 st
January 2018. In view of the proposed introduction of the World Handicap System (WHS) these
changes have been kept to a minimum. They also take into account some of the options likely to be
adopted in the WHS.
The Manual has been updated with all the new changes and can be seen on the CONGU website.
Again due to WHS, CONGU will not be issuing hard copies of the manual but pages/chapters can be
downloaded and printed individually as the manual is in PDF format.
The full list of changes can be seen on the website but the principle changes include:
- Retirement of Club and disability handicaps: As a result of their low impact, these have
been replaced by a new Category 5 for men and Category 6 for both men and women
providing a maximum handicap of 54 for all golfers. After 1st January 2018, handicap
committees will be able to increase handicaps above the current limits of 28.0 and 36.0.
- Non Qualifying Scores: Consideration of non qualifying scores need no longer be limited
to the annual review, however all adjustments must still be carried out in accordance with
Clause 23.
- Supplementary Scores: To encourage players to submit sufficient scores in order to
produce a handicap that reasonably reflects their golfing ability, a player may now submit an
unlimited number of supplementary scores in a calendar year instead of the current limit of
10. The current restriction for Category 1 players will remain.
- Mixed Tee Competitions: A single CSS will be prepared for two or more competitions
played on the same day. All scores will be entered into a single competition, the CSS
calculated and then the software will allow the results to be separated for each group of
competitors.
There are 17 changes in total but the ones listed above are the main ones. Of the others, many are
clarifications and confirmations. A full list can be seen on the website. Any queries should be addressed
to your national union, whose address can be seen on the website.
Bob Carrick
CONGU® - Chairman
6
HOW TO USE THE MANUAL
Gender
Throughout the manual, reference to the masculine gender includes the feminine. Text and numbers
enclosed in square brackets [ ] apply to women only.
Manual Contents
The Contents pages list the principal elements of the CONGU® Unified Handicapping System and
provide an outline as to how the manual is structured. Most of the time it should be possible to identify
a relevant section simply by reference to the Contents page. In addition, an index is provided at the
end of this manual (pages 104-113) directing readers to the required Clause, Decision or Appendix.
Know the Definitions

Whenever a word or expression is used that is included within the Definitions section, the word or
expression is printed in italics. A good knowledge of the defined terms is necessary for the correct
application and interpretation of the CONGU® Unified Handicapping System.
Understand the Words

The CONGU® Unified Handicapping System is written in a deliberate fashion. The reader should be
aware of and understand the following differences in word use:
may = option / discretion
should = recommendation
must / shall / directs = instruction / responsibility
Supplementary Information
In order to provide enhanced explanation and understanding, the rules and regulations have been
supplemented, where appropriate, by advisory text or questions and answers. Such supplementary
information is contained in the shaded boxes.
Directions and Delegations

There are a number of clauses in the CONGU® Unified Handicapping System that each Union has to
interpret and provide direction for Area Authorities and member clubs, including delegation of authority
where appropriate. The clause numbers of such discretions, directions and delegations are shaded for
ease of identification e.g. 9.3
The directions for each of the GB&I countries are shown following each clause. Overseas Affiliates
should make their own directions for these clauses, where appropriate.
Guidance on the system operation

Additional information on the operation of the system is given on the CONGU® website,
www.congu.com and on the websites of the Home Unions within GB&I. Golfers with queries on the
operation of the CONGU® Unified Handicapping System should seek help from their club handicap
secretaries or club administrators in the first instance. Affiliated Clubs should follow the guidance of
their own Home Union and send enquiries either directly to that Union or, if so directed, to their Area
Authority.
7
PRINCIPAL CHANGES INTRODUCED IN THE 2016 REVISION
General
Definitions
Definitions have been introduced for:
• Away Club, CONGU® Club Handicap, Competition Handicap, CONGU® Disability Golf
Handicap (change of name), Continuous Handicap Review, Designated Nine-Hole Course,
Exceptional Scoring Reduction, Local Rule, Overseas Affiliate; Single CSS Adjustment.
System Changes
• Dates: The handicap year to follow the calendar year, 1 January to 31 December.
• Preferred Lies: Each Union/Association has discretion to adopt a preferred lie period within its
jurisdiction.
• Competition Handicaps: All Unions/Associations are required to use the ‘c’ handicap status
annotation.
• Four-Ball Better Ball Handicap Allowance: Increased from 75% to 90% for both stroke play
and match play.
• CSS Calculation: Category 4 players are now included for both men and women.
• Three letter identifiers: Have been restructured and a definitive list has been included in the
manual.
• Initial Handicap Allotment: A new algorithm introduced in line with the Annual Review
algorithm. A handicap may be allotted up to a limit of 54.
• Handicaps for Golfers with Disabilities: There is now no distinction for Golfers with
Disabilities – their handicaps will be managed in exactly the same manner as all CONGU®
Handicaps.
• Re-activation of handicap: If a player leaves a club with a ‘c’ handicap, this status will remain
valid for the year of resignation and for the full following calendar year, should a player join
another affiliated club.
• Re-instatement of handicap status: The re-instatement of a ‘c' status handicap requires the
return of 3 qualifying scores. These can be nine-hole scores, 18 hole scores and can include
supplementary scores.
• Qualifying nine-hole score recording: Playing better than or to the buffer zone still requires
18 points to be added to achieve a similar 18-hole outcome and for players within their buffer
zones or better this points total continues to be recorded on the handicap record. For handicap
purposes only, however, players returning a score outside the buffer zone have their points total
doubled on their handicap record to avoid the occurrence of anomalies within the Annual Review
process.
• Exceptional Scoring Reductions: ESRs are no longer compounded and to lessen the severity
of the reduction for those players averaging two exceptional scores of -5.5 or -6 the reduction
table has been modified. Also nine-hole scores are included for ESR application purposes with
22 points being the trigger. The application of ESRs is mandatory if a Union adopts this
procedure. (ESRs continue to be inapplicable in Scotland.)
• Supplementary Scores: Extensions introduced resulting in Supplementary Scores being:
o allowed in Scotland for handicaps of 2.5 and above;
o acceptable over nine holes for handicaps of Category 2 and above;
o allowed at all GB&I clubs of which the player is a Member;
o unlimited in number of scores per year for those players with a handicap between the
agreed maximum handicap (28 for men and 36 for women) and 54.
• Annual Review: There is a new standard report.
8
PRINCIPAL CHANGES INTRODUCED IN THE 2016 REVISION - Continued
• Continuous Handicap Review: There is now a computer-generated report which flags players
with 7 consecutive 0.1 handicap increases. Handicap Committees are recommended to review
the performance of such players giving due consideration to applying a handicap increase.
• Suspension and Loss of Handicap: As per clause 26.1 now handicaps can be restored within
12 months of the date the handicap was lost or suspended as opposed to 6 months in the
previous manual.
Decisions
• Decision 1(a) has been revised to reflect the discretion of the Unions regarding the preferred
lie period.
• Decision 1(n) has been revised to include the need for contingency arrangements in the event
of computer failure.
• Decision 2(c) has been withdrawn as its text has been incorporated in the main body of the
manual within Clauses 7 and 8.
• Decision 3(a) has been withdrawn. Its content has been incorporated into Clause 18.
• Decision 6(a) has been revised to show an example using 90% handicap allowance
Changes introduced for 2018
• Definitions: Add Buffer Zones for 9-hole competitions for completeness

• Qualifying Competitions: Consideration of non-qualifying scores should not be restricted to
the Annual Review only
• CSS Calculation: Clarify that non-‘c’ handicaps are not to be considered when calculating the
CSS.
• UHS Compliance List: Confirm that Ireland have the authority to adjust handicaps after non-
qualifying competitions
• CSS Calculation: Buffer Zone or Better calculation to use the Stableford Adjusted Score for
Medal Competitions to bring into line with Stableford/Par/Bogey competitions.
• Initial Handicap Allotment: The formula was missing a ‘)’ making it incorrect – corrected.
• Retirement of Club and Disability Handicaps: These have been removed from the system,
recognising their low impact, and Category 5 for Men and Category 6 for Men and Women
introduced, providing for a maximum handicap of 54.0 for all golfers.
• Supplementary Scores: Relaxation of rules – no restriction on number per year, no restriction
on number per week.
• CSS Calculation: Clarification of the introduction of Category 4 Men into the calculation.
• Mixed Tee Competitions: Reinforcement of the One CSS Adjustment Calculation
• Definitions: Add initial cards submitted for handicap allotment into the definition of
Qualifying Score.
• Handicap Allowances: Further clarification on the treatment of Plus handicaps.
• Teeing Ground: Definition moved from Decision 7(a) to Appendix A for clarity.
• 9-Hole Competitions: Introduce the option of 9-hole Medal Competitions and Open 9-Hole
Competitions. Clarify treatment of handicap allowances for mixed tee 9-hole competitions.
• Disqualified Scores: Clarify the treatment of use of DMD where first use of a banned function
is now a 2-shot penalty.
• Handicap Adjustments: Confirm the order of application when mixed tees are involved.
• Handicap Adjustments: Confirm that the adherence to Appendix M for handicap reviews is
mandatory, not optional.
9
Amendments to the Manual
10th January 2018
• Clarification on treatment of Multi-Tee events - sections 18.9 – 18.12 (Page 42)

• Additional dispensation for Category 1 players to submit supplementary scores when they
commence the year without a Competition handicap – section 21.4(d) (Page 48)
• Appendix F: Greensomes Allowance based on Playing handicap (Page 75)
• Appendix L: Amended to include the correct reference regarding the Supplementary Score
procedure (Page 87)
14th March 2018
• Club, Disability and Junior Handicaps: Remove all references from the Index (Pages 109-
118)
• Decision 2f: Introduced to advise on situations where a players single score submission will
count for 2 separate competitions on the same day. (Page 105)
• Decision 2g: Introduced to rule that an individual competition played in conjunction with a 4BBB
cannot be qualifying for handicap purposes. (Page 105)
• Course Measurement (Appendix A): Reinforce that when measuring the length of a hole it
must be carried out commencing from Tee to Green, not Green to Tee. (Page 62)
• Continuous Handicap Review – Ireland: Reinforce that for Ireland, any increase of handicap
implemented as a result of the Continuous Handicap Review must be sanctioned by the Area
Authority. (Page 56)
• Local Rule for Cleaning and Replacing the Ball – Decision 1c: If a club introduces a local
rule to allow the cleaning and replacing of the ball under the Rules of Golf Appendix I, Part A,
3(c), scores may only count for handicap adjustment if the area defined is restricted to closely
mown areas only. If defined as ‘through the green’ it will render the score/competition as non-
qualifying. (Page 100)
1st August 2018
• Initial Handicap Scores: Confirm that these are to be entered into the Computer for calculation
of initial handicap and stored on the handicap record/CDH(Page 36)
• Always calculate Gross and Nett Differentials: Ensure a Gross and Nett Differential is
calculated even when no scores are entered (Pages 27, 81 & 95)
• Reword directions for 9-hole competition: Confirm the approach which targets 36 points for
handicap adjustment purposes (Clause 22.6, Page 49)
19th September 2018
• Responsibilities of the Club, Responsibilities of the Player: Amended to include the

responsibility of the player to provide their previous clubs and handicap history before a
handicap is allocated or transferred. (Clause 6, Page 23 and Clause 8, Page 26)
1st December 2018
• Abandoned Competitions where no scores have been submitted – New decision 1(q) –
Page 105
• Players who do not commence the second or subsequent round of a multi-round
competition – New decision 4(b) – Page 108
• Continuous Handicap Review – previous assistance document now incorporated as Appendix
Q - Page 97
• How to Manage Mixed Tee Scratch Competitions – Appendix O – Page 90
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• Rules of Golf update 2019
o References to Conditions of Competition changed to Terms of Competition throughout

the manual.
o References to old documents (e.g. references to Appendices of the old rules of golf
amended to Committee Procedures) replaced with the new equivalents.
o Maximum Score Per Hole Format – Added into the manual – Clause 17 – Page 41
o Practice on the Course – manual amended to take account of Rule 5 allowing practice
on the course after the last competition round of the day has completed. A
supplementary score can be submitted under such circumstances – Clause 21 – Page
50
o Disqualified Scores – References to rule numbers changed to reflect the new rules.
Also use of Alternative to Stroke and Distance local rule used in Qualifying Competition
has been added. Appendix P – Page 96
o Clean and Replace Ball in the General Area – Decision amended to allow a qualifying
competition to be played with a local rule allowing Clean and Replace ball in the general
area – Decision 1(c) – Page 104
11
PART ONE
INTRODUCTION
1. Purpose/Operation
2. Definitions
13
1. PURPOSE / OPERATION
The purpose of the CONGU® Unified Handicapping System (from now on referred to as the ‘UHS’) is
to enable golfers of differing abilities, men and women alike, to compete on a fair and equitable basis.
This is achieved by:
• establishing for each golf course, based on effective playing length and playing difficulty, an 18-
hole Standard Scratch Score that is the mark against which handicaps are allocated and adjusted;
• taking account of the influence on scoring of course and weather conditions on the day of the
competition by calculation of a Competition Scratch Score. This calculation can result in movement
of the Standard Scratch Score upwards or downwards depending on the performance of the
participants relative to the Standard Scratch Score;
• applying adjustments to handicaps related to tees used, and respective Standard Scratch Score
and course par to enable men and women to compete on an equitable basis;
• for handicap purposes only, limiting the maximum score that can be recorded on any hole by
application of the Stableford / Nett Double Bogey adjustment in order to make handicaps more
representative of a player’s potential ability;
• adjusting handicaps, upwards or downwards where appropriate at the completion of each round of
a qualifying competition; and
• reviewing handicaps annually, or at shorter intervals in exceptional circumstances, to ensure that
handicaps are reflective of current ability.
It is recognised that handicapping, due to the nature of the game of golf with its varying playing
conditions, is not an exact science. A high level of uniformity can be achieved, however, if all
parties honour their obligations by observing the spirit and intent of the system.
The UHS is based on the following fundamental premises:
• every player will endeavour to make the best score he can at each hole in every qualifying round
he plays and will report all such rounds for handicap purposes;
• every golf club or handicapping authority will, whenever possible run stroke play competitions as
qualifying competitions, calculate a Competition Scratch Score and make all handicap adjustments
strictly in accordance with the system; and
• every player will return a sufficient number of qualifying scores to provide reasonable evidence of
his current ability.
It is against the spirit and intent of the system to adjust the Terms of Competition deliberately, so that
it is rendered non-qualifying on a technicality.
Unions have a duty to ensure that Affiliated Clubs discharge their responsibilities in full. Sanctions may
be taken against any party that does not observe either the spirit or intent of the system. Any player
who fails to act with integrity and carry out the responsibilities imposed by the UHS shall not be entitled
to a CONGU® Handicap.
The UHS is administered, reviewed and developed as necessary by the Council of National Golf Unions
Limited (CONGU®)
Handicapping within the UHS is delegated to Affiliated Clubs subject to the overall jurisdiction of the
Union.
The following terms are registered trademarks of the Council of National Golf Unions Limited:
CONGU®, CONGU® Unified Handicapping System and CONGU® Handicap.
14
2. DEFINITIONS
Whenever a word or expression is used which is defined within the following definitions the word or
expression is printed in italics.
Affiliated Club
An Affiliated Club is a club affiliated to a Union or Area Authority which pays to the Union and/or
Area Authority a specified annual per capita fee in respect of each eligible Member.
Alternate Day Competition

An Alternate Day Competition is a Qualifying Competition that allows players unable to play on
the main competition date e.g. due to work commitments to participate in the same competition,
on an alternate date(s). A separate Competition Scratch Score is calculated for each day of an
Alternate Day Competition.
Annual Review
The Annual Review is a process whereby the Handicap Committee is required to consider the
playing performance of all Members over the preceding year in relation to their current handicap
and make any adjustment considered appropriate.
Area Authority
An Area Authority is any authority appointed by a Union to act on behalf of that Union for the
purposes of the UHS within a specified geographic region e.g. County, (District Executives/
Provincial Councils in Ireland).
Away Club
A player’s Away Club is an Affiliated Club of which a player is a Member but which does not
administer the player’s handicap.
Buffer Zone
A score is within a player’s Buffer Zone when a Nett Differential is within the following bands for
his Handicap Category:
18 Hole 9 Hole
Category 1 0 to +1 36
Category 2 0 to +2 35-36
When a player’s score is within his Buffer Zone his Exact Handicap remains unchanged.
Central Database of Handicaps (‘CDH’)

A CDH is a central database of handicapping information collected electronically from Affiliated
Clubs when they close down Qualifying Competitions. This information is made available for
reference by individual players, Affiliated Clubs and tournament organising bodies on the
internet in accordance with the CDH specifications laid down by the Unions. There are English,
Irish and Scottish/Welsh CDH versions in operation within GB&I to assist with the automatic
return of away scores to the Home Clubs of Members.
Central Database of Handicaps ID Number (‘CDH ID Number’)

A CDH ID Number is a unique number allocated by a Union to a Member that allows him to be
registered and recognised for handicapping purposes within his respective Union’s CDH.
Competition Play Conditions

Competition Play Conditions prevail during Stroke Play, Par/Bogey and Stableford competitions
over 18 holes and for competitions played over a Designated Nine-Hole Course under the Rules
of Golf from Competition Tees. Competition Play Conditions shall not prevail when the length
15
of the course played varies by more than 100 yards (91 metres) from the length of the Measured
Course.
Note 1: Special rules apply when the length of a Measured Course has been temporarily
reduced or increased – see Clause 13.
Note 2: Special rules apply to Nine-Hole Qualifying Competitions – see Clause 22.
Competition Scratch Score (CSS)

The Competition Scratch Score is the scratch score of the day as determined by applying
Clause 18 together with Appendix B.
Competition Tee
A Competition Tee is the teeing ground, as defined in the Rules of Golf, the front of which should
normally be placed no more than 10 yards (9 metres) in front of, or behind, the relevant Distance
Point. See also Decision 7(a).
Note: Special Rules apply when the length of a Measured Course has been temporarily reduced
or increased - see Clause 13.
CONGU® Handicap
A CONGU® Handicap is a handicap allotted and adjusted by the Home Club of a Member in
accordance with the requirements of the UHS. A CONGU® Handicap must only be allotted to
a Member of an Affiliated Club. Any other handicap is not a CONGU ® Handicap.
The upper limit is 54.0 for both men and women.
Competition Handicap
A Competition Handicap is a CONGU® Handicap of a player who has returned at least three
Qualifying Scores in the current or previous calendar year. Such a handicap is annotated with
a ‘c’ symbol after the numeric value of the handicap. Clubs may use the possession of a ‘c’
status handicap as a qualification for entry to competitions.
Continuous Handicap Review

The Continuous Handicap Review is the process detailed in Clause 23 (D) by which players
whose performance suggests that they may be under-handicapped are identified during the
course of a playing season for consideration by the Handicap Committee for an immediate
handicap increase.
Differentials
(1) The Nett Differential is the difference (+ or -) between the nett score returned by a player in
a Qualifying Competition and the Competition Scratch Score after the application of Clause
19 when appropriate or the result of applying the conversion tables contained in Appendix
D.
(2) The Gross Differential is the sum of the Nett Differential and the Playing Handicap.
Designated Nine-Hole Course

A Designated Nine-Hole Course is a sequence of nine holes that has been rated by the Union
of an Affiliated Club and for which the Union has granted a Standard Scratch Score for the
playing of Nine-Hole Qualifying Competitions in accordance with Clause 22 and for the allotment
of initial handicaps under Clause 16 and Appendix J.
Distance Point
The Distance Point is the position of a permanent marker on a tee from which the length of the
hole has been measured – see Decision 7(b).
Disqualified Score
A Disqualified Score for handicap purposes is any score returned in a Qualifying Competition,
or as a Supplementary Score, when the player has been disqualified by the Committee from the
competition or round for a breach of the Rules of Golf. Depending upon the nature of the breach,
the score, or adjusted score under Clause 19, may be within the Buffer Zone or qualify for a
16
handicap reduction. Otherwise an increase in Exact Handicap of 0.1 is applied - see Appendix
P.
Exceptional Scoring Reduction (ESR)

An Exceptional Scoring Reduction (ESR) is a reduction in a player’s Exact Handicap that is
applied over and above the decrease applied by the UHS when certain patterns of scoring are
triggered by a combination of both the level and frequency of scores. ESRs are calculated in
accordance with the provisions of Clause 23(c) and are applied by Affiliated Clubs at the
discretion of each Union.
General Play Adjustment

A General Play Adjustment is a change to a player’s handicap, other than that resulting from
participation in a Qualifying Competition that is actioned by the Handicap Committee in the
period between Annual Reviews to take account of a significant change in playing performance.
Handicaps
(1) Exact Handicap – A player’s Exact Handicap is his handicap to one decimal place,
calculated in accordance with the provisions of the UHS.
(2) Playing Handicap - A player’s Playing Handicap is his Exact Handicap rounded to the
nearest whole number (0.5 is rounded upwards).
(3) Competition Handicap Allowance – The Competition Handicap Allowance is the
CONGU® Handicap adjusted, where applicable, for the competition type, and the course
and set of tees over which the competition is played.
Handicapping Authority
The Handicapping Authority for a player is his Home Club subject to the overall jurisdiction of
the Union.
Handicap Categories
Handicaps are divided into the following Categories:
Handicap
Exact Handicap Playing Handicap
Category
1 Plus to 5.4 Plus to 5
2 5.5 to 12.4 6 to 12
3 12.5 to 20.4 13 to 20
4 20.5 to 28.4 21 to 28
5 28.5 to 36.4 29 to 36
6 36.5 to 54.0 37 to 54
Handicap Committee
A Handicap Committee is the body appointed by an Affiliated Club to administer the UHS within
the Club – see Clause 6.3
Home Club
A player’s Home Club is an Affiliated Club of which the player is a Member. If a player is a
Member of more than one Affiliated Club he must nominate one as his Home Club and this club
shall administer the player’s handicap.
Local Rule
This term has the same meaning as it does within the Rules of Golf.
17
Measured Course
A Measured Course is any course of an Affiliated Club the measured length of which has been
certified in accordance with the requirements of Clause 11 and for which a Standard Scratch
Score has been allocated by its Union.
Member
A Member is an amateur golfer who is eligible to compete throughout the year in all Qualifying
Competitions arranged by his Affiliated Club(s) subject only to exclusion by virtue of one or more
of the following:
(a) restrictions imposed relating solely to the handicap of the players who may compete; or
(b) restrictions imposed relating solely to the age or gender of the players who may compete;
or
(c) restrictions arising from category of club membership.
A Member must have the opportunity to compete in a reasonable number of Qualifying
Competitions in a calendar year and to submit Qualifying Scores in accordance with Clause 21.
Note: Under this definition a Member as defined by the UHS is not necessarily a member as
defined by the constitution or rules of his Affiliated Club or Clubs.
Non Qualifying Competition

A Non Qualifying Competition is a competition when the requirements of a Qualifying
Competition are not satisfied.
In exceptional circumstances only, or with the authority of the Union, the committee in charge
of a competition may declare it a Non Qualifying Competition before play commences and must
so advise competitors before they commence play.
Overseas Affiliate
An Overseas Affiliate is an organisation/federation situated outside of GB&I and which has been
granted permission by CONGU Ltd to use the CONGU® UHS within its jurisdiction. An
Overseas Affiliate has the standing of a Union in terms of the roles and responsibilities within
the CONGU® UHS.
Qualifying Competition
A Qualifying Competition is any competition in which Competition Play Conditions prevail and
for handicap adjustment and record purposes full handicap allowance is applied and a
Competition Scratch Score is calculated, subject to restrictions and limitations contained in the
UHS or imposed by a Union – see Clauses 4.1(g) and 17.2(f).
When the Terms of Competition impose handicap limits to establish a result it will be a Qualifying
Competition provided full handicap allowance is applied for handicap adjustment and record
purposes.
Note: A Competition Scratch Score is not calculated for a Nine-Hole Qualifying Competition.
Qualifying Score
A Qualifying Score for handicap purposes is any score, including a ‘No Return’ or a score
adjusted under Clause 19, returned in a Qualifying Competition, as a Supplementary Score or
for initial handicap allotment.
Reduction Only
A Qualifying Competition for Reduction Only is determined by the Competition Scratch Score
calculation as specified in Clause 18.4 or by the abandonment of competitions as outlined in
Clause 18.7. (The Committee in charge of a competition must not declare a Qualifying
Competition to be for Reduction Only).
Note: A Committee does not have the authority to organise a competition in which handicaps
can be reduced but not increased i.e. pre-determine that a competition is for
handicap ‘Reduction Only’.
Rules of Golf
The Rules of Golf as approved by R&A Rules Limited and the United States Golf Association.
18
Single CSS Adjustment

The Single CSS Adjustment is the adjustment, detailed in Appendix B, which may be applied to
the Standard Scratch Score to generate the Competition Scratch Score when Qualifying
Competitions are played under the provisions of Appendix O.
Standard Scratch Score (SSS)

The Standard Scratch Score is the score allocated to an 18 hole golf course (two rounds of a
nine-hole course) in accordance with the requirements of Clause 9.
Supplementary Score
A Supplementary Score is a score in compliance with the requirements of Clause 21, returned
for handicapping purposes at an Affiliated Club of which the player is a Member, other than in
a Qualifying Competition.
UHS
The ‘UHS’ is the CONGU® Unified Handicapping System developed by the Council of National
Golf Unions and applies to men and women who are Members of Affiliated Clubs.
Union
The Unions/Associations are the five national governing bodies, namely England Golf, Wales
Golf, Golfing Union of Ireland, Irish Ladies’ Golf Union Ltd and Scottish Golf Ltd.
19
PART TWO
RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
3. Rights and Responsibilities of the Council of National Golf Unions

4. Rights and Responsibilities of the Union
5. Rights and Responsibilities of the Area Authority
6. Responsibilities of the Affiliated Club
7. Responsibilities of the Handicap Committee
8. Responsibilities of the Player
21
3. COUNCIL OF NATIONAL GOLF UNIONS LIMITED
The purpose of the Council of National Golf Unions Limited (CONGU®), in consultation with the
constituent Unions, is to monitor, maintain and develop the UHS as, and when, necessary.
CONGU® shall:
3.1 Delegate the jurisdiction for the administration of the UHS within a country to the Union.
3.2 Monitor the application of the UHS to ensure that its purpose, spirit and intent are being
observed by all parties.
3.3 Consider and make determinations on handicapping matters referred to it by Unions or other
golfing bodies.
3.4 Promote knowledge and understanding of the UHS among Affiliated Clubs and their
Members.
3.5 Conduct research in connection with the maintenance and development of the UHS.
3.6 Have the right to obtain information relating to handicapping from Unions at any time.
3.7 At its discretion settle any dispute, complaint or matter of interpretation regarding the
application of the UHS referred to it by a Union that, after consideration, the Union has been
unable to resolve. In such a circumstance the decision of the Council of National Golf Unions
is final.
4. RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE UNION
CONGU® has delegated to the Union the responsibility to monitor and maintain the application of the
UHS in all Affiliated Clubs under its jurisdiction.
4.1 The Union has overall jurisdiction over the administration of the UHS and may delegate any
part of that jurisdiction to an Area Authority.
To discharge its responsibilities the Union must:
(a) appoint a committee to administer the UHS;
(b) have policies for the administration of handicapping that are consistent with the
fundamental principles and regulations of the UHS as outlined below and with the Rules
of Golf as approved by R&A Rules Limited;
(c) have a policy to ensure that all Affiliated Clubs discharge their responsibilities under
Clause 6.2;
(d) establish a procedure to adjudicate upon the provisions of Clause 24 and when required
appoint a committee to perform the duties therein;
(e) specify the appeal procedure to be made available to Members dissatisfied with the
determination made by the Union pursuant to Clauses 23 and 24;
(f) at its discretion, settle any dispute referred to it under the UHS, subject to Clause 3.7;
(g) establish within the Union conditions, restrictions and limitations to be imposed in respect
of competitions deemed to be Qualifying Competitions and produce a list that must be
reviewed and published annually – see also Clause 17.2(f);
(h) specify the obligations to be observed by clubs and players in respect of a National
Handicap Database;
(i) conduct an annual audit of the handicap records of members of Affiliated Clubs with, as a
minimum, a handicap of +1 [1] or better; and
(j) establish a Competition Scratch Score for each round of every Qualifying Competition it
organises.
England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales make no delegations under this clause.
22
Purpose of Audit As Required By Clause 4.1(i)
The primary purpose of the audit of low handicap players is to provide assurance that handicap records
have been maintained in accordance with the UHS and that ‘Away’ scores have been reported by
Players as required by Clause 8.10. To facilitate the audit Affiliated Clubs may be required by the Union
to return at the end of the competition season, the Handicap Record (as outlined in Appendix I) for all
Members with, as a minimum requirement, a Playing Handicap of +1 [1] or better.
The audit is based on the comparison of these Handicap Records with the official scores from a wide
range of scratch competitions.
Past experience has established that a number of players failed to report all scores recorded away from
their Home Club. Regrettably, the majority of such omissions were scores that would have attracted an
increase in handicap. The outcome is that players with scores omitted from their record have a handicap
lower than that to which they are entitled. This can have an important bearing on entry into prestigious
competitions. By auditing, Unions can better assure ‘a level playing field’ and not place those players
who honour their obligations in full at a disadvantage.
Since auditing was introduced it is the experience of the Unions that compliance with the UHS
requirements has improved very significantly.
An additional benefit of the audit is in the selection of teams and coaching squads where emerging
talent is identified where not already known.
4.2 The Union has responsibility for the assessment and allocation of Standard Scratch Scores
in accordance with the requirements of Clauses 9.and 12. In addition, it must:
(a) ensure that Standard Scratch Scores are re-assessed at prescribed intervals in
accordance with the USGA licence agreement; and
(b) determine the manner by which temporary or provisional Standard Scratch Scores are
allocated.
4.3 The Union has the right, at any time, to obtain information concerning a Member’s handicap
from an Affiliated Club or, at its discretion, directly from the Member.
4.4 When a player is a Member of more than one golf club and these clubs are affiliated to different
Unions, a Union may request information in regard to handicapping matters from another
Union or, with the prior approval of that Union, directly from the player or his Affiliated Club.
4.5 The Union has some discretionary powers.

(a) It may authorise Home Clubs to increase the handicaps of players in any of the Categories
2, 3, 4 [and 5] in accordance with Clause 23. When such authority has been given, the
requirements of Clauses 23.3 and 23.4 that the increase shall be effected by the Union or
Area Authority shall not apply. If the Union or Area Authority considers that handicaps
have been unjustifiably increased it may require the Home Club to comply with all of the
provisions of Clause 23.
England, Scotland and Wales authorise Home Clubs to make increases under this
clause. In Ireland, Home clubs are not so authorised; all proposed increases in handicaps
must be submitted to the appropriate Provincial Council / District Executive.
(b) It may require a player to return to his Home Club information regarding scores in Non-
Qualifying Competitions as provided by Clause 8.12.
Scotland do not require players to report Non-Qualifying scores. Ireland requires players
to return all scores in Non-Qualifying Competitions which have been played over a
Measured Course to which the Unions have allotted a Standard Scratch Score and where
Competition Play Conditions exist. This information is to be used by the Handicap
Committee for immediate consideration/action in accordance with the provisions of Clause
23(B) with the exception of Category 1 players. Wales and England require a player to
return to his Home Club information regarding scores in Non-Qualifying Competitions in
accordance with Clause 8.12. This information may be used by the Handicap Committee
when conducting the Annual Review or any interim review in accordance with the
provisions of Clause 23.
(c) It may restrict increases of Exact Handicaps to a maximum of 1.0 stroke in a calendar year
as provided by Clause 20.10.
23
Ireland restricts increases of the lowest Exact Handicap to 1.0 stroke in a calendar year
under this clause. England, Scotland and Wales make no restrictions under this clause.
4.6 When an Affiliated Club is subject to formal insolvency procedures or ceases to trade a
Union may take whatever steps it deems to be practicable and appropriate in the particular
circumstances to assist Members in retaining their handicaps in the short-term or
facilitating the transfer of handicaps to alternative Affiliated Clubs.
5. RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE AREA AUTHORITY
Any part of the overall jurisdiction of the UHS may be delegated by the Union to an Area Authority.
The Area Authority

5.1 Must administer the responsibilities delegated to it by the Union in accordance with the
provisions of Clause 4.1.
5.2 Has the right to obtain information concerning handicaps from Affiliated Clubs at any time.
5.3 When required, must appoint committee(s) to perform the duties referred to in Clauses 23 and
24.
5.4 Must specify the appeal procedure to be made available to Members dissatisfied with the
determination made by the Area Authority pursuant to Clauses 23 and 24.
5.5 Must establish a Competition Scratch Score for each round of every Qualifying Competition it
organises.
6. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE AFFILIATED CLUB
Handicapping within the UHS is delegated to Affiliated Clubs subject to the overall jurisdiction of the
Union.
To facilitate full compliance with their responsibilities, clubs should conduct, on an annual basis, a
self-audit using the UHS Compliance Checklist contained in Appendix L.
The Affiliated Club must
6.1 Act as the Handicapping Authority for all Members for whom it is the Home Club subject to
the overall jurisdiction of the Union.
6.2 Ensure that the spirit and intent of the UHS is properly applied in the club. Failure by a club
to comply with this requirement may lead to a Union withdrawing the club’s right to act as a
Handicapping Authority or imposing such conditions as the Union considers appropriate. (See
Note below)
6.3 Appoint a Handicap Committee comprised of a minimum of three persons, the majority of
whom must be Members.
6.4 Ensure that all handicaps are calculated in accordance with the UHS and issue, when
requested, handicap certificates, which are required to specify a CONGU® Handicap thereon.
6.5 Ensure that, where handicaps are calculated and maintained by computer, the software used,
is provided by an Independent Software Vendor (ISV) currently licensed by CONGU®.
6.6 The Affiliated Club must ensure it complies with Section Three, Parts 9-15, and in particular
Part 11, of this manual and has a current Certificate of Course Measurement for each set of
tees from which Qualifying Competitions are played. The club should also display prominently
a Standard Scratch Score Certificate for each set of tees from which Qualifying Competitions
are played.
6.7 Inform the Union, or Area Authority if so delegated, of course alterations, particularly length
changes (increases and decreases) that may impact on the allotted Standard Scratch Score.
6.8 Ensure that all Qualifying Competitions are played from a Measured Course with due regard
to the definition of a Competition Tee. The Terms of Competition should be clear and available
to all competitors.
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6.8/1 Terms of Competition
Rule 20 of the Rules of Golf states that ‘The Committee (in charge of the competition) must establish
the conditions under which a competition is to be played’. To assist Committees in the discharge of this
responsibility The R&A has produced a document entitled Committee Procedures. Implementation of
the advice contained therein should avoid unnecessary problems and disputes related to the running
of a competition. Of particular relevance to the successful management of club competitions are the
sections covering eligibility, entry, format, time of starting and groups, handicaps and the decision of
ties.
It is the responsibility of the Committee to interpret the conditions they establish. Consequently the
Terms Competition should be clear and precise, be made available to competitors and contain guidance
as to what action should be taken when certain circumstances arise e.g. failure to enter the competition
in the manner set out in the conditions.
Players’ responsibilities are contained in the Rules of Golf
6.9 Appoint committees, as and when necessary, to perform the duties referred to in Clauses 23
and 24.
6.10 Specify the appeal procedure to be made available to Members dissatisfied with the
determination made by the club pursuant to Clauses 23 and 24.
6.11 Retain handicap records, in electronic or hard copy, in respect of all present and past
Members for not less than the current and previous two calendar years and retain all score
cards until the end of the current handicap year. Handicap records for all Members must be
returned to the Union or Area Authority should the club cease to be affiliated. It is advisable
to retain at least 20 of the players’ most recent scores. For those who play few qualifying
rounds in a year, it may be necessary to keep hard copies of their scores for a number of
years.
6.12 Provide the Union with such information as the Union requires to maintain a National Handicap
Database (CDH).
Note: It is the Home Club’s responsibility to ensure that handicaps are maintained in accordance
with the rules laid down by the UHS. Any complaint regarding the application of the UHS
must be made to the Union, or Area Authority if so delegated, which may carry out such
investigation as it shall consider appropriate. If, following such an investigation, it is found
that a Home Club is in breach of its responsibilities, the Home Club shall be directed by the
Union or Area Authority to review all handicaps and must within three months from that
direction report to the Union or Area Authority the manner in which matters have been
rectified. Failure to resolve the matter satisfactorily would justify the Union disaffiliating the
Home Club, or declaring that handicaps at that club are no longer CONGU® Handicaps.
6.13 In order that a new member is allocated an appropriate handicap it is essential that the club
requests previous membership and handicap history of a prospective member as part of the
new member application process.
Composition of the Handicap Committee
It is a requirement of the UHS that the Handicap Committee is comprised of a minimum of three persons
with the majority being Members.
While club secretaries, club managers, administrators or club professionals in some clubs have a
significant role to play in the administration and management of handicaps, an important element of
the UHS is related to the application and conduct of the Review of Handicaps. ‘Peer review’ is
necessary to administer Clause 23 as intended and this is best fulfilled through the knowledge that
Members have of their fellow Members.
The members of the Handicap Committee need not necessarily be current members of the club
committee. Continuity is important in order that the required knowledge of, and expertise in, the UHS
is retained.
It is recommended that both genders are represented on any joint Handicap Committee.
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7. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE HANDICAP COMMITTEE
Subject to the overall jurisdiction of the Union, the Handicap Committee has specific responsibility for
the allotment and maintenance of handicaps as delegated to Affiliated Clubs.
The Handicap Committee must
7.1 Allot and maintain handicaps of its Members in accordance with Clauses 16 and 20 of the
UHS.
7.2 Maintain a record, manually or by computer, in which the names of competitors, on the day of
the competition, must be entered prior to competing in a Qualifying Competition at the club.
7.3 Ensure, so far as possible, that all cards taken out in Qualifying Competitions are returned to
the Handicap Committee including incomplete cards.
7.4 At the conclusion of each round of a Qualifying Competition calculate the Competition Scratch
Score as required by Clause 18 and submit all finalised Qualifying Scores to the CDH, in
accordance with Clause 6.12.
7.5 Display in a prominent position at the club all alterations to Members’ Playing Handicaps
immediately they are made.
7.6 Ensure that a record of Members’ current Exact Handicaps and Playing Handicaps is available
in a prominent position at the club.
7.7 When the club is a player’s Home Club the Handicap Committee must
(a) maintain on his behalf a handicap record sheet which must include all the information
shown in Appendix I, Specimen Player Handicap Record;
(b) ensure his scores are recorded as soon as practicable after completion of each
Qualifying Competition at his Home Club or after the reporting of a Qualifying Score or
Supplementary Score returned elsewhere, either by the Player or automatically via a
Union’s CDH, and that all Exact Handicaps are calculated in relation to scores recorded
in chronological order. Once processed by the Home Club, all scores and associated
handicap adjustments must be uploaded to the Union’s CDH;
(c) keep his Exact Handicap up to date at all times;
(d) unless some other body has been appointed by the Home Club for this purpose, exercise
the power to suspend handicaps contained in Clause 24;
(e) when a Member changes his Home Club send to the new Home Club a copy of the
player’s handicap record for the current year and previous two calendar years along with
verification of the Member’s CDH ID Number;
(f) specify the conditions which apply when a player wishes to obtain a handicap under the
provisions of Clause 16;
(g) exercise the powers to adjust players’ handicaps contained in Clause 23;
(h) as required by Clauses 23.5, 23.8, 23.15 and 23.18 advise players of changes made to
their handicaps under the provisions of Clause 23. It is not sufficient to merely post these
adjustments each player must be advised of them on an individual basis;
(i) prior to 1st March each year, or such earlier date as directed from time to time by the
Home Club’s Union, the Handicap Committee must undertake a review of the handicaps
of all Members for whom the club is the Home Club and make such handicap adjustment
as may be appropriate under the provisions of Clause 23 and Appendix M. Ireland
directs that this should be completed by 31st December each year; and
(j) specify the manner by which ‘away’ Qualifying Scores must be reported by a Member
to his Home Club – see Clause 8.10.
7.8 When the Affiliated Club is a player’s Away Club the Handicap Committee must:
(a) ensure that scores returned in Qualifying Competitions are returned via the Union’s CDH
where applicable, as soon as practicable after completion of each round; and
(b) ensure that the club discharges its responsibilities under Clause 21.13 in respect of
Supplementary Scores played by its Away Members over the club’s course(s).
Note 1: Incomplete cards and ‘no returns’ have an effect on a player’s handicap. The Handicap
Committee would be justified in:
(a) refusing to accept a card or record a ‘no return’ when the player has walked in after playing
only a few holes;
(b) not issuing cards to players where there is obviously insufficient light for them to complete
their round;
26
(c) giving sympathetic consideration to players who have had to discontinue play for any
reason considered to be reasonable by the organising committee.
Affiliated Clubs have the discretion under Clauses 23 and 24 of the UHS to deal with a player
who persistently submits incomplete cards or makes ‘no returns’..
Note 2: For new members of the Handicap Committee there is a Quick Guide for Handicap Secretaries
that can be downloaded from the CONGU® website. There is also a Quick Guide for players
which should be drawn to the attention of Members.
8. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE PLAYER
The UHS is based on the premise that a player will endeavour to make the best score he can
at each hole in every qualifying round he plays and will report all such rounds for handicap
purposes.
Any player who fails to carry out any of the responsibilities imposed by the UHS is not entitled to a
CONGU® Handicap.
The player must:
8.1 Have one Exact Handicap only which must be allotted and adjusted by his Home Club and
produce, if so required, a current, validated CONGU® Handicap Certificate and/or valid CDH
ID Number. The Playing Handicap calculated from this Exact Handicap shall apply elsewhere
including other clubs of which the player is a Member.
8.2 If he is a Member of more than one Affiliated Club, select one as his Home Club for
handicapping purposes and notify that club and the others of his choice and supply each away
club his Home Club CDH ID Number.
(a) In Ireland a player’s Home Club for handicapping purposes must be the club at which he
competes most frequently.
For ease of handicap administration, it is recommended that in circumstances where a player is a
Member of more than one Affiliated Club, he should select as his Home Club, the club at which he
competes most frequently in Qualifying Competitions.
8.3 Not change his Home Club except by giving advance notice of the change which can take
effect only at the end of a calendar year unless he has ceased to be a Member of his Home
Club or both clubs agree to the change taking place at an earlier date.
8.4 Report to his Home Club the names of all other Affiliated Clubs of which he is, becomes, or
ceases to be, a Member and report to all other Affiliated Clubs of which he is a Member:
(a) the name of his Home Club and any changes of Home Club; and
(b) his Home Club CDH ID Number, and
(c) alterations to his Playing Handicap made by his Home Club.
8.5 Prior to playing in any competition ascertain whether all appropriate reductions to Playing
Handicap have been made or alternatively comply with the responsibilities set out in Clause
20.11.
8.6 Before commencing play on the day of a Qualifying Competition ensure that his entry has
been registered in the competition record, manually or by computer in the manner required by
the club or committee in charge of the competition.
A player who fails to enter a Qualifying Competition in the required manner is deemed to have
neither a score for the competition nor a score for handicap purposes.
8.7 Enter his current Playing Handicap on all cards returned in a Qualifying Competition even
though the event may not be a handicap competition. This is required for the calculation of a
Competition Scratch Score.
8.8 Ensure that all competition cards in Qualifying Competitions, whether or not complete, are
returned to the organising committee, and make such computer entries as may be required
– see Decisions, Dec.1(m) and Dec.1(n).
Note: It is expected that every player who enters a Qualifying Competition intends to
complete the round.
27
8.9 When competing away from his Home Club produce, on request, a current CONGU®
Handicap Certificate authenticated by his Home Club and/or a valid CDH ID Number. A
Member playing in a Nine-Hole Qualifying Competition or returning a Nine-Hole
Supplementary Score at his Away club is responsible for verifying that his correct Exact
Handicap is applied in the calculation of Competition Handicap Allowance.
8.10 Report to his Home Club as soon as practicable all Qualifying Scores (including ‘No Returns’
and Disqualified Scores – see Appendix P) returned away from his Home Club advising the
Home Club of the date of the Qualifying Competition, the venue, Standard Scratch Score and
the Competition Scratch Score together with details specific to the competition format.
(a) After a Stroke Play Qualifying Competition, the gross score returned and any Stableford
/ Nett Double Bogey Adjustment applicable. See Clause 19.1 and the example
referenced 19.1/1. The Home Club may require a copy of the scorecard to be returned
to support the adjustment.
(b) After a Par/Bogey Qualifying Competition, the par of the course and the score versus
par.
(c) After a Stableford Qualifying Competition, the par of the course and the number of points
scored.
In Ireland see also Clause 8.12 and 20.11
Note 1: Players are reminded that failure to report all Qualifying Scores returned away from their
Home Clubs (including ‘No Returns’ - see Blue Box 8.10/1 below - and Disqualified Scores
– see Appendix P) as required by the UHS could lead to the suspension of offending
players’ handicaps under the provisions of Clause 24.
Note 2: In the event of a Qualifying Competition being declared abandoned or scores returned
being determined by the provisions of Clause 18 to be for Reduction Only, the player must
report the information required by Clause 8.10 to his Home Club.
Note 3: The fact that scores recorded by players competing in competitions away from their Home
Club may be reported to their Home Club by the competition organisers, or through a
Centralised Database of Handicaps (CDH), does not remove the responsibility of
individual players to ensure that all relevant scores are recorded in their Player Handicap
Record.
Note 4: Elite players (i.e. those subject to annual audit by their Union) may be required to return
specified overseas scores to their Union or may be directed by their Union to return
specific overseas scores to their Home Club for inclusion directly into their handicap
record.
8.11 Authorise, if so requested, his Home Club to provide the Union with such information as his
Union shall reasonably require to maintain a national handicap database and also sign any
relevant document which may be required to comply with or satisfy Data Protection legislation.
8.12 Provide to his Home Club information regarding scores in Non-Qualifying Competitions if so
directed by a Union – see Clause 4.5(b).
Ireland directs that it is mandatory for both clubs and players to report to Home Clubs all Non-
Qualifying Scores from Team and Society Golf played over a course for which the Union has
allotted a Standard Scratch score together with notification of the relevant SSS – See also
Clauses 4.5 (b) and Note to 23 (B). England and Wales direct players to return Non
Qualifying Scores for the purposes of the Annual Review and other reviews. Scotland make
no directions under this clause.
8.13 When joining a new club the player must provide details of previous club memberships and
handicaps held whilst at those clubs.
Players should be aware of the significance of the Stableford / Nett Double Bogey Adjustment. This
adjustment allows a player who has a ‘bad’ score on a hole(s) or does not complete a hole(s), for any
reason, to continue to record a score on subsequent holes for handicap purposes. This sustains the
golfing interest and at the same time provides valuable handicap information. See Clause 19.
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8.5/1 Upward Self Adjustment of Playing Handicap
Q. Prior to playing in any competition, I am required by Clause 8.5 to ascertain that all appropriate
reductions to Playing Handicap have been made. As a player who keeps track of my Exact
Handicap at all times why am I not allowed, by the same principle, to increase my handicap
where appropriate?
A. The Rules of Golf require that a player plays from the correct handicap. If a handicap is entered
on the scorecard lower than the player’s actual handicap, the score is acceptable for competition
purposes. If the player plays from a handicap higher than that to which he is entitled he is
disqualified. The self-reducing procedures set out in Clause 20.11 following the return of a score
resulting in a handicap reduction are designed to remove the possibility of disqualification in a
subsequent competition through playing from too high a handicap.
‘Self-increasing’, however, following the return of a score(s) above the Buffer Zone has a
number of issues:
• the player does not always know precisely his Exact Handicap; and
• upward movement of the CSS can result in a change to the player’s Buffer Zone that he may
not be aware of, resulting in the player incorrectly increasing his handicap and possibly being
in the embarrassing position of winning a prize to which he is not entitled.
Consequently to safeguard the player and preserve the integrity of handicapping, increases in
handicap may only be made by a player’s Home Club after scores have been duly reported and
posted at the Home Club and / or on the Union’s CDH.
8.10/1 Meaning and Usage of the Term ‘No Return’
Strictly, a ‘No Return’ is the result of a player having commenced play in a Qualifying Competition either
failing to return his scorecard to the Committee in charge of the competition or entering a ‘no score’ at
each hole of a computer based score recording system.
However, in addition, a ‘No Return’ in common usage is applied to a return in a Medal Stroke Play
competition in which the player has failed to record a score at one or more holes and consequently
does not have a score in the Medal Stroke Play competition. Notwithstanding, such an incomplete card
is used for handicap purposes by the application of Clause 19 to establish a Nett Differential.
The term ‘No Return’ is commonly abbreviated to NR.
These differing situations in regard to a NR are demonstrated in the specimen Player Handicap Record
contained in Appendix I:
• In the Stroke Play competition dated 18/05, the player did not return his scorecard. A ‘no score’
was recorded at each hole and the identifier ‘NC’ is entered in the ‘Gross Score’ column. In such
circumstances the score is treated as a Nett Double Bogey on each hole. Thus the Gross
Differential is calculated as 36 plus handicap and Nett Differential is 36. The Adjusted Gross
Score is recorded as CSS + 36 + handicap.
• In the Stroke Play competition dated 03/06, the player returned his card without a score
recorded on one of the holes and again recorded a NR. On this occasion, however, an adjusted
gross score could be calculated by applying Clause 19. The resulting Nett Differential was within
his Buffer Zone and there was no increase in handicap.
29
PART THREE
THE GOLF COURSE / STANDARD

SCRATCH SCORE / COURSE RATING
9. Standard Scratch Score

10. Establishing Par
11. Course Measurement
12. New Courses and Alterations to Existing Courses
13. Permitted Adjustments to a Measured Course
14. Tees
15. Preferred Lies
31
9. STANDARD SCRATCH SCORE
9.1 The Standard Scratch Score is the score that a scratch player is expected to return in
normal mid-season course and weather conditions over a Measured Course.
9.2 The allocation of Standard Scratch Scores shall be the responsibility of the Union.
9.3 The Standard Scratch Score of courses under each Union’s jurisdiction must be assessed
in accordance with the USGA Course Rating System.
Note: A Standard Scratch Score determined by the Rating System of the EGU is valid until the
golf course is re-assessed under the provisions of Clause 9.3.
The Standard Scratch Score (SSS) is a measure of the playing difficulty of a golf course under normal
mid-season course and weather conditions. The USGA Course Rating System takes account of the
measured length of a golf course together with factors that affect both the playing length and the playing
difficulty (obstacle factors).
The factors that affect the effective playing length of a golf course are:
Roll Wind Forced Lay-up

Dogleg Elevation
The ten obstacle factors that determine the playing difficulty of a golf course are:
Topography Fairway Green Target

Recoverability and Rough Bunkers Out of Bounds/Extreme Rough
Water Hazards Trees Green surface
Psychological
Each hole on the golf course is evaluated on a scale 0-10 for each of the ten obstacles and account
taken of the effective length correction factors e.g. the effective playing length of a fast running links
course is quite different from that of a moorland course with soft fairways.
It is a requirement of the USGA Course Rating System that course raters are trained and team leaders
tested before being accredited to determine course ratings.
To take account of course changes and evolution, established courses are required to be re-rated at
prescribed intervals or in accordance with license agreements, where appropriate.
9.4 A temporary Standard Scratch Score may be allocated in such manner as a Union shall
decide.
9.5 No course of less than 3,000 yards, or fewer than nine holes, shall be allocated a
Standard Scratch Score. In Ireland, the minimum length is 4000 yards (3658 metres)
9.6 Courses between 3,000 and 4,000 yards may be allocated such Standard Scratch Scores
as the Union shall determine. Affiliated Clubs should contact their Union for guidance.
Golf courses in the following categories are exempt from the above
• Courses of fewer than 3,000 yards allocated a Standard Scratch Score prior to 1 January 1993.
• Courses of fewer than nine holes allocated a Standard Scratch Score prior to 1 January 2000.
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9.3/1 Par as a Basis for Handicapping
Q. Professional golf uses par as a measure of comparative playing performance. Why is the
CONGU ®UHS not based on par?
A. CONGU® does not consider that par provides a suitable basis for a reliable and robust
handicap system. Par is a very crude measure of the playing difficulty of a golf course. Two
courses having the same par may vary in length by many hundred yards. To illustrate how
great this difference can be, consider two courses constructed in similar terrain:
Course A – Four Par 3 holes each 140 yards in length and fourteen Par 4 holes each 300
yards in length. Total course length 4760 yards. Par 68
Course B - Four Par 3 holes each 220 yards in length and fourteen Par 4 holes each 400 yards
in length. Total course length 6480 yards. Par 68.
Assuming similar relative playing difficulties on each course, the scoring potential of a scratch
golfer on the shorter course A would be quite different from that expected on the much longer
Course B. Although each has a par of 68 the respective Standard Scratch Scores would be of
the order of 63 and 71 respectively. It is obvious therefore, that par does not provide a viable
basis for handicapping.
The above example is based on men’s course lengths but similar principles apply to the par of
ladies’ courses.
10. ESTABLISHING PAR
Par is used for Par/Bogey, and Stableford competitions. Par for each hole should be established by
the club in relation to length and playing difficulty, within the following ranges:
Men Women
Yards Yards
Par 3 Up to 250 [Up to 210]
Par 4 220 – 500 [180 – 430]
Par 5 440-720 [370-620]
Par 6 660+ [560+]
For example, if a hole is 460 [415] yards in length, it may be allocated a par of 4 or 5 depending upon
its playing difficulty.
The par figure for each hole should be printed alongside each hole on the card. The total of the par
figures for each hole of a course will not necessarily coincide with the Standard Scratch Score of that
course. The Standard Scratch Score must not be allocated amongst individual holes, but should be
printed as a total on the card.
11. COURSE MEASUREMENT
Course length is the predominant factor in the evaluation of Standard Scratch Scores. The accurate
measurement of each hole is essential.
Measurement must be along the horizontal plane from the Distance Point to the centre of the green
of each hole. It is a requirement that the actual Distance Point on each tee of a set of tees is marked
by the installation of a permanent marker such as a small concrete block or post.
Measurement must be carried out by a person who is competent and experienced in the use of the
appropriate measuring equipment and familiar with the requirements of Appendix A. To satisfy the
requirement placed on the Affiliated Club by Clause 6.6, a certificate of measurement must be
provided:
(a) showing details of the length of each hole and the total playing length of the course for each set
of tees used, or intended to be used, for Qualifying Competitions; and
(b) recording the type of measuring device used to establish the measurement and its accuracy; and
33
(c) identifying any non-compliance, such as incorrectly sited permanent markers or the absence of
such markers.
Note: The certificate of measurement must be retained by the Affiliated Club and made available
to the representatives of the Unions/Associations on request e.g. for course rating purposes.
Subsequent alterations to the length of the course will require a certificate for only the altered hole or
holes.
Appendix A outlines the manner and procedure by which golf courses must be measured to satisfy
the requirements of this clause.
12. NEW COURSES AND ALTERATIONS TO EXISTING COURSES
The Union is responsible for all Standard Scratch Scores in the country over which it has jurisdiction.
12.1 For a new course, a Form of Application must be submitted by the club either directly to the
Union or, if so delegated, through its Area Authority to the Union who will allocate the
Standard Scratch Score.
12.2 When alterations have been carried out to a course which increase or decrease its length
or which may affect the playing difficulty, the Affiliated Club must submit a Form of
Application for reassessment of the Standard Scratch Score(s) either directly to the Union
or through its Area Authority to the Union if so delegated.
Note: A Form of Application may be obtained from the Union.
England and Ireland delegate the authority to receive Forms of Application for new courses and
for the reassessment of Standard Scratch Scores to their Area Authorities.
Scotland and Wales make no delegation under this clause.
13. PERMITTED ADJUSTMENT TO A MEASURED COURSE
Whilst each Affiliated Club must endeavour to maintain the length of its Measured Course for
Qualifying Competitions, Competition Play Conditions nevertheless prevail when the length of a
course has been reduced or increased in the following circumstances:
13.1
When, to allow for the use of temporary, or alternative, tees and not more than two
temporary greens:
- the length of a course has been reduced or increased by not more than 100 yards from
the length of the Measured Course, the Standard Scratch Score remains unaltered;
- to allow work to proceed on course alterations it may be necessary to reduce or increase
the playing length of the Measured Course by between 100 and 300 yards. In these
circumstances, the club must reduce or increase as the case may be the Standard
Scratch Score of the Measured Course temporarily by one stroke and report to the
Union, or Area Authority if so delegated, such alteration and appropriate reasons. The
club must also notify the Union or Area Authority when the course has been restored to
its measured length and the official Standard Scratch Score re-instated.
13.2 Any variations to the above must be referred for consideration to the Union or Area Authority
if so delegated.
Note: The permitted course length adjustments specified in Clauses 13.1 and 13.2 that apply to
courses of 18 holes are halved for Nine-Hole Qualifying Competitions.
England and Ireland delegate responsibility for receiving reports under this clause to their Area
Authorities. Scotland and Wales makes no delegation under this clause.
14. TEES
All clubs with the requisite facilities should have a variety of Competition Tees of differing lengths with
a measurement from the Distance Point on each and a separate Standard Scratch Score. Separate
SSS ratings should be obtained for both men and women from whichever sets of tees each gender
uses for competition and/or handicap purposes.
34
Committees should bear in mind the definition of Teeing Ground in the Rules of Golf which states: ’It
is a rectangular area two club lengths in depth, the front and sides of which are defined by the outside
limits of two tee markers.’'
The tee markers should be placed in such a position that the player has the benefit of the full depth
to which the definition entitles him.
Note: See also Decision 7(b).
To facilitate the use of the appropriate tees it is recommended that tee boxes or other objects in use
to mark the teeing ground should be identified, for example:
Championship Tees Black

White
Yellow
Red
Forward Tees Green/Blue
Note: For many courses only some of the above options will be applicable.
Decisions relevant to Clause 14

7(a) Teeing Areas
7(b) Distance Points and Measured Course
15. PREFERRED LIES
The adoption of preferred lies, can allow Qualifying Competitions to be conducted under acceptable
playing conditions. Clubs should, whenever practicable, play competitions as Qualifying Competitions
during the preferred lie period. Reference should be made to Decisions 1(a) and 1(b) that have been
formulated to promote and encourage Qualifying Competitions in the preferred lie period. When the
club determines that conditions warrant the implementation of preferred lies within the preferred lie
period, refer to Model Local Rule E-3 of the Committee Procedures.
When such conditions are widespread on the course, the Committee can choose to adopt a Local Rule
for “preferred lies” (also known as “winter rules”) to allow fair play or help protect the fairway. Such a
Local Rule should be withdrawn as soon as conditions allow.
The use of this Local Rule outside the fairway in the general area is not recommended as it may result
in a player receiving free relief from areas where a ball might otherwise be unplayable (such as in areas
of bushes or trees).
When preferred lies are in operation the following points shall be taken into consideration:
15.1 Each Union shall give directions to its Affiliated Clubs defining the period during which
preferred lies may be used, if required. Competition Play Conditions will apply
notwithstanding the application of a Local Rule for preferred lies as a result of adverse
conditions during this period (See Clause 15.3 below). The Local Rule may apply to
specified holes only.
15.2 Outside the period specified in 15.1 Competition Play Conditions will only apply when
preferred lies are in operation if the consent of the Union or Area Authority has been
obtained.
England and Ireland delegate the granting of consent for preferred lies outside the specified
period to their Area Authorities. Scotland and Wales make no delegation under this clause.
15.3 It is emphasised that preferred lies must apply only when a Local Rule has been made and
published in accordance with Model Local Rule E-3 of the Committee Procedures as follows:
“When a player’s ball lies in a part of the general area cut to fairway height or less [or
identify a specific area such as ‘on the fairway of the 6th hole’],the player may take free
relief once by placing the original ball or another ball in and playing it from this relief
area:
35
• Reference Point: Spot of the original ball.
• Size of Relief Area Measured from Reference Point: 6 inches from the
reference point, but with these limits:
• Limits on Location of Relief Area:
o Must not be nearer the hole than the reference point, and
o Must be in the general area.
In proceeding under this Local Rule, the player must choose a spot to place the ball and
use the procedures for replacing a ball under Rules 14.2b(2) and 14.2e.
Penalty for Playing Ball from a Wrong Place in Breach of Local Rule: General Penalty
Under Rule 14.7a.
If a player incurs the general penalty for a breach of this Local Rule, no additional penalty
under the Local Rule is applied‘
Note: Competition Play Conditions will only apply when the specified area is within six
inches (150 mm). See Clause 15.3
When a club considers that adverse conditions warrant an extension of the preferred lie period to all,
or part, of the course, representations should be made by the Green Committee or other agreed body
within the club to the Union / Area Authority (if delegated) they consider most appropriate. For the
purpose of Qualifying Competitions the decision of that Union or Area Authority, if so delegated, should
apply to all sections of the club thereafter. The provisions of Clause 15.3 apply.
To ensure a consistent judgement in regard to extension of the preferred lie period it is desirable that
an official of the appropriate Union or Area Authority should conduct an on-course inspection, where
practicable, before authorisation is granted.

1(a) Status of a competition when the use of fairway mats is obligatory
1(b) Status of a competition when artificially surfaced tees are in use
1(c) Status of a competition when a local rule allowing Clean and Place ball in the General Area is
in operation
1(d) Status of a competition when competitors are required to lift a ball from the fairway and place in
semi-rough.
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PART FOUR
HANDICAPPING
16. Allotment of Handicaps

17 .Qualifying Scores/Qualifying Competitions
18. Competition Scratch Score
19. Stableford/Nett Double Bogey Adjustment
20. Alterations of Handicaps
21. Supplementary Scores
22. Nine-Hole Qualifying Competitions
23. Review of Handicaps
24. Suspension and Loss of Handicap
25. Status of Handicap
26. Regaining a Handicap
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The UHS has been developed to achieve uniformity and equity in handicapping for amateur golfers
throughout Great Britain and Ireland and other countries adopting the UHS. CONGU® Handicaps
can only be issued by a Union or Affiliated Club in full compliance with the requirements of the UHS.
Handicaps issued by other bodies are not CONGU® Handicaps.

To ensure that all Affiliated Clubs are consistent in the interpretation and application of the UHS, each
club should conduct a self-audit, on an annual basis, using the UHS Compliance Checklist contained
in Appendix L.
Note: Reference to the masculine gender includes the feminine. Text and numbers enclosed in
square brackets [ ] apply to women only
16. ALLOTMENT OF HANDICAPS
16.1 A handicap can be allotted only to a Member of an Affiliated Club after full consideration of
his previous playing history, including any handicap held previously at any other club or
under another handicap system.
16.2 To obtain a handicap a player must submit a required number of nine and/or 18-hole cards
played over a Measured Course (rated course) at his Home Club. Any permutation of nine
and 18-hole cards may be submitted but must total a minimum of 54 holes. Cards submitted
over nine holes must be returned from a Designated Nine-Hole Course. Each card must be
marked and signed by a responsible person acceptable to the Handicap Committee. The
requisite cards should normally be submitted within a period of six months.
16.3 The Handicap Committee has the following responsibilities and discretions in regard to the
allotment of handicaps. (Note that these scores are to be recorded on the players
Handicap Record via the Computer and the calculations below will be carried out
automatically).
(a) If a handicap has been previously held, refer to Clause 26 (Regaining a Handicap).
Otherwise the initial handicap shall be allotted as in (b) below.
(b) The Handicap Committee shall
1. Adjust any score of more than double par at any hole to a score of double par
(i.e. 6 on a Par 3, 8 on a Par 4 and 10 on a Par 5).
2. Add the nine-hole scores (if applicable) to make up 18-hole equivalents in
chronological order. If a club has more than one Designated Nine-Hole Courses
each pair of nine-hole scores must be returned over courses having the same
Designated Nine-Hole SSSs for the gender of player concerned.
3. Calculate the Adjusted Gross Differential (‘AGD‘) scores from the three 18 hole
(or 18-hole equivalent) scores; these scores being calculated by comparing
the returns relative to the SSS’s of the courses/tees used:
AGD = Adjusted Gross Score – SSS for the course/tees used
Determine the Lowest Adjusted Gross Differential (‘LAGD‘) from the three
Adjusted Gross Differentials
4. Reduce the resulting LAGD according to the formula;
Initial Handicap = (LAGD + (LAGD*0.13))/ 1.237 truncated to provide a whole
number.
For example, a player with a Lowest Adjusted Gross Differential of 31 is
allotted an initial handicap of 28 (which is recorded as an Exact Handicap of
28.0) as shown below:
Initial Handicap = (31 + (31*0.13))/1.237
= (31 + 4.03)/1.237
= (35.03/1.237)
= 28.31 truncated to 28 and recorded as an Exact Handicap of
28.0.
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After these adjustments have been made the whole number Exact Handicap shall,
subject to the provisions of Clauses 16.3(c) and 16.3(e), be allotted.
(c) The Handicap Committee must consider all the information available to it in relation to
the player’s ability and any previously held handicap before allotment of a handicap.
After due consideration, the Handicap Committee may allot a player an initial whole
number Exact Handicap less than that calculated as per 16.3(b) above if it has reason
to consider that a lower handicap is more appropriate to the player’s ability. In
exceptional circumstances a higher handicap may be allotted than that indicated
above.
(d) The Handicap Committee should review the initial Qualifying Scores returned by all
Member’s to whom a handicap has recently been allotted. If the Handicap Committee
determines that an adjustment is required to a Member’s recently allotted handicap,
this must be administered in accordance with the provisions of Clause 23 B.
National Unions and their Affiliated Clubs are seeking ‘to grow the game’ and make it more attractive
to new and inexperienced players. In support of these initiatives CONGU has increased Handicap
limits to a maximum of 54.
When handicaps are allotted over the previous CONGU® limits for Men and Women (28.0 and 36.0)
the club committee has two options:
• To allow and encourage players with higher handicaps to participate in club competitions
• To run separate competitions or separate classes / divisions within club competitions for those
players with higher handicaps.
Clubs are encouraged to recognise and embrace the responsibility they have to attract, encourage and
enthuse those new to the game as well as satisfying the needs of those already in club membership.
(e) A player must not be allotted a Category 1 handicap without the authority of the Union
or Area Authority if so delegated. The Union should record all Category 1 Handicap
allocations authorised.
England and Ireland delegates the authority for the allotment of Category 1 handicaps
to the Area Authorities. Scotland and Wales make no delegation under this clause.
16.4 The maximum CONGU® Handicap eligible for Competition status (Clause 25) that can be
allotted is 54 for both men and women. (Maximum Exact Handicap 54.0).
In the context of the UHS the ‘Affiliated Club’ is the club affiliated to a Union / Area Authority which pays
to that Union / Area Authority a specified per capita fee in respect of each eligible Member i.e. a golf
club may have more than one ‘Affiliated Club’, one affiliated to a Ladies’ Union and another affiliated to
the Men’s Union in that country.
If a golf club has more than one Affiliated Club and more than one Handicap Committee (Clause 6.3)
they, the Affiliated Clubs / Handicap Committees, should seek to agree common criteria for the
allotment and review of handicaps.
16.3/1 Allotment of Handicap Lower Than That Calculated
Q In what circumstances can a club allocate a handicap lower than that calculated by clause 16.3?
A. The Handicap Committee may allot an initial whole number Exact Handicap less than the best
adjusted score if it has reason to consider that a lower handicap is more appropriate to the
player’s ability. Factors to be considered include:
• previous playing history and any lower handicap previously held at the Home Club or at any
other club. This is of paramount importance;
• time of year and prevailing weather conditions when cards submitted;
• information from peers;
• a handicap held under another handicapping system.
Additional information is available in Blue Box 23/5 which gives guidance on ‘Adjusting Newly Allocated
Playing Handicaps’ in appropriate circumstances.
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8(a) Status of ‘Handicap Only’ or ‘Competition Handicap’ (or the like) categories of golf club
membership in the context of CONGU® definition of a Member.
17. QUALIFYING SCORES / QUALIFYING COMPETITIONS
Although a club committee or Handicapping Authority has the right to deprive certain competitions of
their status as Qualifying Competitions this discretion should not be abused. It is considered to be
outside the spirit and intent of the UHS to adjust the terms and conditions of an otherwise Qualifying
Competition so that it is technically Non-Qualifying. Examples of situations used to circumvent and
abuse the handicapping rules are:
• the imposition of a limitation to the number of golf clubs a competitor may use. (This does not refer
to traditional five-club competitions and the like which may be run as Non Qualifying Competitions);
• intentionally moving one or more tees forward when a Measured Course is available and in a
suitable condition for play;
• imposing a handicap allowance limitation of, for example, 7/8ths.
In addition, having allowed a competition to commence, a Committee does not have the right to
subsequently declare a Qualifying Competition ‘null and void’ or ‘cancelled’ for handicap purposes
because a pre-determined number of entries has not been met. Irrespective of the number of
competitors (or entries) a CSS must be calculated and handicaps adjusted as appropriate. The
Committee would, however, be within its rights to withhold prizes should a pre-determined minimum
entry not be reached.
17.1 Scores to be recorded on a Player’s Handicap Record are:

(a) Qualifying Scores as defined including Supplementary Scores and Nine-Hole Scores
returned in compliance with Clauses 21 and 22 respectively;
(b) Nett Differentials returned in any abandoned round of a Qualifying Competition. In
such circumstances the Competition Scratch Score is equal to the Standard Scratch
Score and handicaps are not increased – See Clause 18.7;
(c) Disqualified Scores in Qualifying Competitions – See Appendix P for interpretation of
acceptable and unacceptable scores;
(d) scores returned in a Qualifying Competition played over nine or 18 holes on a course
reduced in length under the provisions of Clause 13;
(e) scores returned in a Qualifying Competition played over a Measured Course when
Local Rules are in operation for preferred lies (as permitted by Clause 15) or for any
other purpose, provided the rules are in compliance with Model Local Rules of
Committee Procedures or have been approved by the R&A Rules Limited;
(f) scores returned in a competition over more than one day (which need not be
consecutive) and in which only one return is permitted; and
(g) scores returned in a competition extended over three or more days solely to
accommodate the number of players entered.
(h) In Ireland, all relevant Non-Qualifying scores.
Note 1: Qualifying Scores returned in Par/Bogey and Stableford competitions must be
converted into Nett Differentials by using the Table in Appendix D.
Note 2: For handicap adjustment and record purposes the entry of an incorrect score on
any hole or an incorrect handicap must be corrected. Where no handicap is
recorded the correct Playing Handicap must be applied. – See Appendix P
regarding Disqualified Scores.
17.2 The following returns are not acceptable as Qualifying Scores:
(a) scores returned in any four-ball better ball competition;
(b) scores returned in competitions over other than nine or 18 holes;
(c) scores returned in any competition in which the form of play is not covered by the
Rules of Golf and authorised Local Rules;
(d) scores returned in any form of competition in which competitors play in partnership
with another competitor in the same playing group;
40
(e) scores returned in a competition played with less than full handicap allowance unless
scores are recorded with full handicap applied and a Competition Scratch Score
calculated – see definition of a Qualifying Competition; and
(f) scores returned in an event run by any organisation which is not a Handicapping
Authority, unless the event has been previously approved by a Union as a Qualifying
Competition – see Clause 4.1(g).
In Ireland, all relevant Non-Qualifying Scores must be recorded on a Player’s Handicap
Record.
17.3 The declaration that a competition is a Non Qualifying Competition disqualifies all scores
returned in that competition from being used directly for handicap purposes. Thus a player
returning a score below his handicap will not have his Exact Handicap reduced nor will a
score above the Buffer Zone increase his Exact Handicap (except in Ireland where such
adjustments are permitted). Performance in Non-Qualifying Competitions is only one of a
number of factors to be considered in any Review of Members’ handicaps, and especially
in the Annual Review.
17.4 Scores returned in a Maximum Score Per Hole competition format.
a) This is a variation of a standard Medal format competition where a maximum score per
hole is defined for that competition. It is a format designed to assist with Pace of Play.
b) The maximum score per hole will be set at a specific value over par – e.g. 5 over par.
Thus a player who fails to hole out on a hole will be credited with a score on that hole
equal to the maximum score for that hole. Similarly once a player has taken a number
of strokes equal to or greater than the maximum for that hole, they will be credited with
the maximum score for that hole. It is expected that a player would ‘pick up’ at that point,
taking account of the pace of play aims of this format.
c) Such a competition can be run as a Qualifying Competition subject to the Maximum
Score Per Hole being set at 5 over par or greater. Setting the maximum score at 4 over
par or less would render the competition Non-Qualifying for handicap purposes as a
player with a high handicap could potentially be credited with a lower score than a Nett
Double Bogey.
d) For handicap adjustment purposes and the calculation of the CSS, the Nett Double
Bogey principle (Clause 19) will be applied.

Qualifying Competitions
1(b) Status of a competition when artificially surfaced tees are in operation
1(c) Status of a competition when a local rule allowing Clean and Place in the General Area is in
operation
1(d) Status of a competition when competitors are required to lift a ball from the fairway and
place in semi-rough
1(e) Status of a competition when bunkers are undergoing renovation
1(f) Status of a competition when green staff have carried out maintenance work during the
course of a competition
1(g) Status of a competition in which shotgun starts are employed or competitors are authorised
by the committee to start other than at the first tee
1(h) Status of a play-off
1(i) Handicap to be used in event of a Member holding a handicap from more than one
Handicapping Authority
1(j) Limitation of handicaps in Qualifying Competitions
1(k) Status of a competition when a local rule permitting the use of electronic distance
measuring devices is in operation REMOVED
1(l) Status of aggregate competitions
1(m) Competition conditions that apply solely to the UHS
1(n) Failure to comply with a competition condition requiring entry by applying a swipe card to
a computer terminal
1(o) Failure to report ‘Away’ scores affecting handicap
1(p) Failure to return a scorecard on completion of round causing inconvenience to Handicap
Committee
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1(q) Abandoned competition where no completed scores are submitted

Qualifying Scores
2(a) Competitions extending over more than one round
2(b) Status of scores in extended competitions with eclectic or aggregate awards
2(d) Status of a marker in a Qualifying Competition
2(e) Status of scores returned from outside the jurisdiction of CONGU®
2(f) Player Score counts for 2 Competitions on the Same Day
2(g) Status of Individual Competition played in conjunction with a 4BBB Competition
17/1 ‘Reduction Only’ Competitions
Q. Are there any circumstances under which a club can run Stroke Play, Par/Bogey or Stableford
competitions where handicaps can be reduced but not increased?
A. A club does not have the authority to run competitions in which handicaps can be reduced but not
increased. When a competition is declared Non Qualifying handicaps can neither be reduced nor
increased. There are only two situations within the UHS when handicaps can be reduced but not
increased. These are:
• a competition where application of the CSS calculation determines that the competition is
Reduction Only (R/O). See clause 18.4; and
• when a competition has been abandoned for a valid reason, reductions of handicap are
made on the basis that the CSS is equal to the SSS. See clause 18.7.
17/2 Handicap Adjustment in Par/Bogey Competition Is Less than in Stroke Play Equivalent
Q. A Category One player competing in a Par/Bogey Competition finished one up on a course where
the SSS, CSS and Par were the same. His nett score, had Stroke Play conditions prevailed, would
have been three strokes below the CSS. By how much should his handicap be reduced?
A The Table in Appendix D is used to convert Par/Bogey and stableford scores to Nett Differentials.
The Stroke Play score is not relevant. In the above situation 1up converted to a Nett Differential
of -1 resulting in an exact Handicap reduction of 0.1 of a stroke.
17.3/1 Adjustment of Handicaps in Non-Qualifying Competitions
Q. The Handicap Committee in our club has taken the decision to make competitions Non Qualifying
for the duration of the preferred lie period. Resulting from this decision a number of competitors
who played below the course SSS in such competitions are seeking a reduction in their Exact
Handicap. Is this permitted?
A. It is a fundamental tenet of the UHS that handicap adjustments can only be applied in Qualifying
Competitions when handicaps are adjusted, upwards and downwards as appropriate, in relation
to the CSS. To create a situation where handicaps can only be reduced, would distort the balance
on which the system is based. To reduce the handicaps of those players scoring below the SSS
in Non-Qualifying Competitions is considered to be an unacceptable abuse of the system. To
permit the UHS to operate as intended, all competitions should be run, whenever possible, as
Qualifying Competitions. A number of dispensations for winter play have been granted by
CONGU® to encourage this, including preferred lies and use of artificial mats.
In Ireland, scores in relevant Non-Qualifying Competitions must be considered by the Handicap

Committee in accordance with the provisions of Clause 23(B), with the exception of Category 1
players.
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18. COMPETITION SCRATCH SCORE
The calculation of the Competition Scratch Score is a procedure employed on the day of the competition
to quantify the influence of course and weather conditions on the scoring ability of the field and regulate
adjustments to handicaps accordingly.
The object is to bring the improved pattern of scoring resulting from playing conditions more favourable
than average, or the inferior scoring pattern resulting from conditions more difficult than average, into
line with the expected scoring pattern established for golfers in each of the Handicap Categories in
normal mid-season playing conditions.
18.1 At the conclusion of each round of a Qualifying Competition, with the exception of a Nine-
Hole Qualifying Competition, the Competition Scratch Score must be calculated by following
the procedure set out in Appendix B and applying Table A and, if appropriate, Table B.
(a) For club competitions the procedure specified in sub-clauses 1.1 to 1.16 must be
applied.
(b) If appropriate, the provisions of sub-clause 2.1 to 2.4 for a Single CSS Adjustment may
be applied for both club and open Qualifying Competitions.
(c) For ‘open’ competitions the procedure specified in sub-clauses 3.2 to 3.5 must be
applied subject to the provisions of sub-clause 3.1.
18.2 In the event of one round of a Qualifying Competition extending over more than one day, a
separate Competition Scratch Score must be calculated for each day.
18.3 The tables in Appendix B determine what adjustment, if any, is to be made to the Standard
Scratch Score to provide the Competition Scratch Score or to direct that the scores returned
shall be for Reduction Only (indicated by R/O in the Table column heading). All Nett
Differentials must be calculated in relation to the Competition Scratch Score that is
established.
18.4 When the number of competitors in Categories 1, 2, 3 and 4 is fewer than ten a Competition
Scratch Score must initially be calculated as set out in Clause 18.1. If the calculation results
in a Competition Scratch Score of CSS=SSS+3 R/O (indicated by R/O in the Table column
heading), the best nett score above Buffer Zone in Categories 1, 2, 3 and 4 must then be
used in conjunction with Appendix B, Table B to calculate the final Competition Scratch
Score.
18.5 When the number of competitors in Categories 1, 2, 3 and 4 is five or fewer and when the
calculated Competition Scratch Score is equal to, or less than the Standard Scratch Score
the Competition Scratch Score shall be the same as the Standard Scratch Score.
18.6 If, as a result of either calculation, the Tables indicate that the scores returned are for
Reduction Only, then the Competition Scratch Score shall be deemed to be three strokes
more than the Standard Scratch Score. All players who, after the application of the CSS to
their scores, have returned a Nett Differential below zero, shall have their Exact Handicaps
reduced to the extent dictated by the Nett Differentials so calculated. A Nett Differential of
zero or above shall not result in an increase to a player’s Exact Handicap.
18.7 If a Qualifying Competition is abandoned for any valid reason, the Competition Scratch
Score shall be regarded as equal to the Standard Scratch Score and players returning Nett
Differentials of less than zero shall have their Exact Handicaps reduced to the extent
dictated by the Nett Differential. A Nett Differential of zero or above shall not result in a
handicap increase.
18.8 If a player is a Member of two or more Affiliated Clubs and competes in a Qualifying
Competition organised by two or more of those clubs and played over the same course and
the score in one round is used in all the competitions, then the Competition Scratch Score
applicable shall be that applied by his Home Club or, if none of the clubs is his Home Club,
the highest Competition Scratch Score shall be applied.
Note: Unions, Area Authorities and any organisations so authorised by a Union, must establish
the Competition Scratch Score for events they organise – see Clause 4.1(g).
18.9 When a club runs two or more separate competitions on the same day and they are of
different formats a separate Competition Scratch Score should be calculated for each
competition. If, however, all competitors in the separate competitions play from the same
or different tees on a given course and the same competition format is used, the Affiliated
43
Club may elect to calculate one CSS using the Single CSS Adjustment using the procedure
detailed in Appendix B (Clauses 2.1 to 2.4). Where different tees are used, the Appendix O
adjustment to handicaps would not be relevant and must not be applied.
18.10 When a competition is run over more than one round on the same day, then a separate
Competition Scratch Score shall be calculated for each round.
18.11 When a club runs a single competition in which competitors play from more than one set of
tees over the same course (e.g. mixed or single gender events as detailed in Appendix O)
whenever practicable, a Single CSS Adjustment must be calculated and applied to the
SSS’s of the relevant sets of tees (Appendix B Clauses 2.1 to 2.4).
18.12 When players compete in a Qualifying Competition with prizes for different classes, divisions
or Handicap Categories only one CSS shall be calculated for the whole field.
18/1 Calculation of Competition Scratch Score
Q. How is the Competition Scratch Score (CSS) calculated?

A. The CSS table contained in Table A, Appendix B of the UHS is based on a statistical analysis of
the known performance of golfers of different abilities (Handicap Categories) under a range of
golfing conditions. Table A, Appendix B is based on the expectation of players returning nett
scores within their respective Buffer Zones. In ‘normal’ playing conditions, for example, 30-57%
of participating Category 1 players are expected to return nett scores within their Buffer Zone or
better (SSS+1), In contrast, in the same conditions only 23-45% of Category 3 players are
expected to return nett scores within their Buffer Zone or better (SSS+3), In competition situations
when course conditions are more, or less, favourable than ‘normal’, these percentages will
increase or decrease accordingly, resulting in movement of the SSS as expressed by the CSS.
The mechanics of the CSS calculation are:
• Establish the composition of the ‘field’ as a percentage of each Handicap Category
excluding Category 5 and 6.
e.g. 10% Cat.1 50% Cat.2 40% Cat.3 + Cat.4
• Establish the percentage of the ‘field’ (Cat.1 + Cat.2 + (Cat.3 + Cat.4) with a nett score within
their respective Buffer Zones, or better e.g. 20%
• Refer to Table A in Appendix B, and if appropriate Table B.
• Using this example, the CSS would be the SSS +1.
18.1/1 Why is the CSS Calculation Based on Returns in Players Respective Buffer Zones?
Q. Why is the calculation of the CSS based on the respective Buffer Zones of competitors in
Handicap Categories 1, 2, 3 and 4?
A. When Buffer Zones were first introduced into the CONGU Handicapping System, the Buffer Zone
for all Handicap Categories was established as two strokes (SSS +2).
Differential Buffer Zones were subsequently introduced in line with each respective Handicap
Category. It was established at this time that due to the average composition of fields in Qualifying
Competitions that the resultant CSS calculations using Buffer Zones would not alter significantly
from the existing method of calculation using SSS+2, therefore no change to the method of CSS
calculation was made at this time.
In 2004, the establishment of the UHS introduced Category 4 women into the CSS calculation. In
addition, a significant number of competitions were found to have very small fields. To ensure
parity for such fields it was determined that a move to assessing the scores of players against
their respective Buffer Zones would increase the stability of the CSS calculation, without having
a significant effect on CSS determinations in general.
For 2016, it was established that the scoring pattern for Category 4 Men was more predictable
than originally thought and so these players were also incorporated into the calculation of CSS.
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18.1/2 Influence of CSS Adjustment on Handicapping
Q. How can a situation in which the CSS reduces to one stroke less than the SSS of the course be
justified? This can result in a player being denied a reduction in handicap or scoring outside his
Buffer Zone.
A. The Course Rating system from which the SSS is derived is based on normal mid-season
playing conditions and includes an allowance for average wind speeds at the various golfing
locations. When course or weather conditions are more or less difficult than ‘normal’, the
expectation is that scoring will be affected. Scoring conditions more favourable than ‘normal’
include little or no wind, favourable pin positions and additional roll. In such circumstances the
CSS can be one stroke less than the SSS. Conversely in unfavourable weather and course
conditions the CSS can increase by up to three strokes above the SSS.
The intent of the CSS procedure is to standardise the ‘reward’ for equal performance in different
playing circumstances. For example, by applying the CSS system the performance of a player
who returns a nett score 2 strokes below the SSS on a day of high wind when the CSS is
calculated to be SSS +3 (Nett Differential –5) equates to that of another player returning a nett
score 6 strokes below the SSS on a day when the CSS is calculated to be SSS-1 (Nett Differential
–5).
18.1/3 Separate CSS Calculation for Each Handicap Category
Q. Why is a separate CSS not calculated for each Handicap Category?
A. This question is most commonly posed by the lower handicap players on occasions when the
CSS is calculated to be one stroke below the SSS. A statistical analysis of a wide range of
competitions in which a separate CSS was calculated for each Handicap Category and compared
to the overall CSS has shown that the procedure does not favour or discriminate against any of
the Handicap Categories. Although there may be occasions when one or other of the Handicap
Categories, if calculated separately, would result in a CSS that differed from the overall CSS, on
average there is close agreement between the overall CSS and the separate CSS calculations
for each Handicap Category.
An additional problem in calculating a separate CSS for the Category 1 entrants [Categories 1
and 2 for women] is that they represent, on average, less than 10% of the field in a typical club
competition. This is generally a less meaningful statistical figure and could result in
unrepresentative CSS values. The larger sample provides the more balanced CSS
determination.
18.1/4 Effect of a Low Score(s) on the CSS Calculation
It is a common misconception that an extremely low score(s) has a greater influence on the CSS
calculation outcome than one at the top end of the SSS + Category Buffer Zone range. This is incorrect.
For example, in a competition held on a course with a SSS of 70, a nett 64 has no more influence on
the CSS calculation outcome than a Category 3 player returning a nett 73. It is the total number of
players with a nett score within their Category Buffer Zones or better as a proportion of the number of
participants in the competition together with their Handicap Category that determines the CSS.
18.1/5 Use of Nearest to Buffer Zone CSS Calculation for Fields of Fewer Than Ten Players
Q. Surely using scores of competitors who have not attained a nett score within their Buffer Zone as
a basis for the calculation is contrary to the basic principle of the Competition Scratch Score
calculation?
A. When it was introduced it was not envisaged that the Competition Scratch Score (CSS)
calculation would be used on a regular basis for competitions with fewer than ten players. The
precision of the calculation is significantly affected by the number of competitors. In competitions
45
with ‘field’ sizes of fewer than ten players the calculation has returned CSS=SSS+3 R/O too
frequently.
In small fields one player’s nett score, given their relative proportion of the field, can have a very
significant effect on the outcome of the CSS calculation. There is the possibility that no player will
achieve a nett score within his Buffer Zone, even in ‘normal’ mid-season conditions with the
resulting CSS calculating as CSS=SSS+3 R/O
This can, for example, result in the situation where a competitor(s) narrowly misses his Buffer
Zone and yet the CSS calculates as CSS=SSS+3R/O. The introduction of the two stage CSS
calculation, using Table B where appropriate, addresses this situation.
Although this change represents a deviation from the standard procedure, it continues to compare
returns to players’ Buffer Zones and produces a CSS that best reflects the playing conditions for
small fields.
19. STABLEFORD / NETT DOUBLE BOGEY ADJUSTMENT
The purpose of the Stableford adjustment is to place a limit on the maximum score that can be recorded
at any hole in order to make handicaps more representative of a player’s potential ability. This control
is for handicap purposes only. It has been introduced to lessen the impact of the occasional ‘bad’
score on a player’s Stroke Play return and to reduce the incidence of ‘No Returns’ that can, on
occasions, represent an undesirable proportion of the competition entry. It also allows a player who
does not complete a hole, for any reason, to continue to record a score for handicap purposes, thus
sustaining his golfing interest and at the same time providing useful handicap information. It is important
that competitors are made aware of the intent of this clause and encouraged to take advantage of it.
The Stableford adjustment should be applied to all stroke play Qualifying Scores irrespective of whether
they are made at the Home Club or at another club. See Clause 8.10(a).
19.1 Scores returned in Stroke Play Qualifying Competitions, whether or not all 18 holes have
been completed, must be adjusted to the Nett Differential that would have applied if the
competition had been a Stableford Qualifying Competition. No points shall be recorded on
a hole where there is no score.
19.2 This adjustment is for handicap purposes only and, notwithstanding the provisions of sub-
Clause 23.2, reductions of less than one stroke shall be made under this clause.
Appendix C sets out a short alternative procedure and supplementary recommendation for
calculating Stableford point score reductions authorised by this clause.
19.1/1 Example of Application of Score Adjustment Using Nett Double Bogey
A competitor playing from a handicap of 15 returned a nett score of 70 in a Stroke Play Qualifying
Competition. This equalled the CSS of the day. The scorecard, however, contained an 8 at the par 4,
5th hole which was Stroke Index 6. In this instance, therefore, the nett double bogey score was 7
(4+2+1) resulting in the 8 being reduced to 7 (for handicap purposes) with consequent reduction in
nett score to 69 and a handicap reduction of 0.3.
Had the competitor made a ‘no score’ at the 5th hole rather than an 8 e.g. he lost a ball and did not
put another into play, the effect, for handicap purposes would have been exactly the same i.e. a nett
double bogey score of 7.
By taking advantage of this clause and completing subsequent holes, competitors have the
opportunity to return scores below their handicap or within their Buffer Zone even though they do not
have a competition score.
46
20. ALTERATION OF HANDICAPS

ALTERATION OF HANDICAPS
20.1 Handicaps are divided into the following Categories:
Handicap
Exact Handicap Playing Handicap
Category
1 Plus to 5.4 Plus to 5
2 5.5 to 12.4 6 to 12
3 12.5 to 20.4 13 to 20
4 20.5 to 28.4 21 to 28
5 28.5 to 36.4 29 to 36
6 36.5 to 54.0 37 to 54
20.2 The recording of scores must be kept by Nett Differential, i.e. the difference (+ or -) between
the player’s nett score (after the application of Clause 19 as appropriate) and the
Competition Scratch Score or, if applicable, the Standard Scratch Score. The date, Nett
Differential, Exact Handicap and Playing Handicap must be recorded in the Player
Handicap Record together with the supplementary information shown in Appendix I,
Specimen Player Handicap Record.
20.3 If a player returns a Nett Differential within his Buffer Zone (including Clause 19 adjustment,
if appropriate) his Exact Handicap is not changed.
A Buffer Zone is the tolerance, above the calculated Competition Scratch Score, allowed in a nett score
return, before an increase in handicap is applied. The Buffer Zone is one stroke above the calculated
Competition Scratch Score for Category 1 and increases in one stroke increments up to six strokes
above the Competition Scratch Score for Category 6
This increasing tolerance is based on the differing scoring patterns of golfers of varying ability and the
Buffer Zone specific to each Handicap Category has been derived statistically to provide that
competitors from all Handicap Categories in a Qualifying Competition have the same likelihood of
playing to their Buffer Zone or better.
20.4 Subject to the provisions of Clauses 18.4 and 18.5, if a player returns a score with a Nett
Differential above his Buffer Zone (including Clause 19 adjustment, if applicable) or records
a ‘No Return’ his Exact Handicap is increased by 0.1.
20.5 If a player returns a Nett Differential of less than zero his Exact Handicap is reduced by an
amount per stroke that the Nett Differential is below zero, the amount per stroke being
determined by his Handicap Category.
Note: Qualifying Scores returned in Par/ Bogey and Stableford competitions must be converted
into Nett Differentials by using the Table in Appendix D.
47
20.6 Exact Handicaps must be adjusted as follows:
If Nett Differential is
Above
Within Buffer Below Buffer
Handicap Exact Buffer
Zone Zone
Category Handicap Zone
Subtract for each
No change Add
stroke below
1 Plus to 5.4 0 to +1 0.1 0.1
2 5.5 to 12.4 0 to +2 0.1 0.2
3 12.5 to 20.4 0 to +3 0.1 0.3
4 20.5 to 28.4 0 to +4 0.1 0.4
5 28.5 to 36.4 0 to +5 0.1 0.5
6 36.5 to 54.0 0 to +6 0.1 0.6
(See Appendix E for detailed handicap adjustments.)
For Example:
If a player with an Exact Handicap of 11.2 returns a score with Nett Differential of +4 his Exact Handicap
becomes 11.3. If he then returns a score with a Nett Differential of -7 his Exact Handicap is reduced by
7 x 0.2 = 1.4. i.e. to an Exact Handicap of 9.9 and his Playing Handicap is 10 which immediately
becomes his new handicap.
20.7 When a player’s handicap is to be reduced so that it goes from a higher Handicap Category
to a lower Handicap Category, it must be reduced at the rate appropriate to the higher
Category only so far as brings his Playing Handicap into the lower Handicap Category and
the balance of the reduction shall be at the rate appropriate to the lower Handicap Category.
For Example:
If a player with an Exact Handicap of 21.2 returns a score with Nett Differential of -6 i.e. 6 strokes below
his Playing Handicap of 21, his Exact Handicap is reduced as follows:
21.2 - (2 x 0.4) = 20.4

20.4 - (4 x 0.3) = 19.2
20.8 A player whose Exact Handicap is X.5 or above must be given the next higher handicap,
e.g. An Exact Handicap of 12.5 would be rounded to a Playing Handicap of 13. This applies
when handicaps are increased or reduced.
Note: An Exact Handicap of +0.5 is rounded up to a Playing Handicap of scratch (0) and not
+1. Likewise, an Exact Handicap of +3.5 is rounded up to a Playing Handicap of +3.
20.9 Alterations to Playing Handicaps, increases and decreases, must be made as soon as
practicable after the close of a competition or after the score(s) becomes known to the
Home Club. The alterations must be displayed immediately in a prominent position at the
club and posted by the Home Club to the CDH.
20.10 Increases in Exact Handicaps should not be subject to restriction unless a Union so directs.
A Union may restrict the increase of Exact Handicaps to a maximum of 1.0 stroke in a
calendar year except for increases granted under Clause 23.
Ireland directs that the increase of the lowest Exact Handicap under this clause is restricted
to a maximum of 1.0 stroke for Category 2 and above, it does not apply to Category 1
players. England, Scotland and Wales make no direction under this clause.
20.11 If a player returns a Qualifying Score or Scores below his Playing Handicap at his Home
Club or away and is unable to:
(a) report an away score(s) to his Home Club; or
(b) ascertain whether or not his Playing Handicap has been reduced as a result of the
score(s)
48
he must, before playing in another competition at his Home Club or away, for that competition
make such reduction to his Playing Handicap as shall be appropriate under the UHS by
applying the Competition Scratch Score if known, otherwise the Standard Scratch Score, to
calculate his Nett Differential and handicap reduction.
Should a player not know his Exact Handicap, such reduction should be made from his Playing
Handicap less 0.5, (e.g. If Playing Handicap is 16 then reduction should be from 15.5).
20.12 Handicap reductions only shall be applied under this sub-clause. Handicap increases
may only be made by a player’s Home Club after scores have been duly reported and
published in accordance with Clause 20.9.

4(a) Alteration of handicaps in the course of a competition over more than one round.
4(b) Treatment of players who withdraw from the 2nd or subsequent round of a competition played
over more than one round.
21. SUPPLEMENTARY SCORES
The UHS is based on the expectation that every player will return a sufficient number of scores to provide
reasonable evidence of his current ability. To operate in the intended manner, the UHS requires
information i.e. the return of Qualifying Scores to produce handicaps that reasonably reflect current ability.
Although golf club committees and administrators may consider that in the course of a playing season
they organise an adequate number of competitions to provide ample opportunity for Members to
participate, investigation has confirmed that a substantial number of Members do not return sufficient
scores in the period between Annual Reviews to maintain a handicap that reasonably reflects their current
ability. This may in part be due to:
• work or family commitments preventing participation in competitions;

• difficulty in obtaining an acceptable starting time on competition days in clubs with a large playing
membership; or
• a declining desire to play regular competitive golf.
Supplementary Scores provide players in the above situations and the like an alternative format in which
to submit scores for handicap purposes and augment the often sparse information derived from
competition play. They can provide more evidence of playing ability for a wider range of players so making
handicapping more equitable and golf under handicap conditions more meaningful for all concerned. This
recognises that the more scores entered on to a players handicap record, the more accurate their
handicap will be.
A Member may return a Supplementary Score for handicapping purposes in compliance with the
conditions set out below.
21.1 Supplementary Scores apply to all Handicap Categories (subject to 21.4 below).
21.2 A Supplementary Score may be returned at any Affiliated Club of which the player is a Member.
21.3 An acceptable score for Supplementary Score purposes is any authenticated score under
Competition Play Conditions in compliance with the conditions listed in this clause and
played over either:
(a) an 18-hole Measured Course in either Stroke Play or Stableford format; or
(b) a Designated Nine-Hole Course in a Stableford format.
21.4 A Member is limited to a number of Supplementary Scores in each year as detailed in below:
(a) subject to (c) below, Category 1 players may only return Supplementary Scores during
the period 1 September to 31 December and only to the extent necessary to ensure that
the minimum requirement for Qualifying Scores under Clause 25 is met. Category 1
players may only return Supplementary Scores over 18 holes;
(b) any number of Supplementary Scores may be returned annually by players in Categories
2 to 6;
(c) a Union has the discretion to permit Category 1 players with handicaps in the range 2.5
to 5.4 to return Supplementary Scores in a calendar year. Such scores may only be
returned at the player’s Home club within that Union’s jurisdiction.
49
Scotland directs that Category 1 players within this handicap range may take up this
discretion. England, Ireland, and Wales make no such direction.
(d) A Category 1 player has an additional dispensation when they commence the calendar
year without a ‘Competition’ status. They may submit Supplementary Scores at any time
of the year, but only in sufficient numbers to regain the ‘c’ status (i.e. a maximum of 3).
21.5 There is no limit to the number of Supplementary Scores returned in a week.
21.6 A player intending to return a Supplementary Score is required to signify his intention
prior to commencement of play in the manner determined by the Affiliated Club.
21.7 A Competition Scratch Score is not calculated and adjustments to handicap, in accordance
with Clause 20.6 for 18-hole scores, shall be made in respect of the Standard Scratch Score.
For nine-hole Supplementary Scores adjustments to handicaps shall be made in accordance
with Clauses 22.5 to 22.9.
21.8 Stroke Play returns are subject to Stableford/Nett Double Bogey Adjustment in compliance
with Clause 19.
21.9 The Supplementary Score must be recorded in the Player Handicap Record.
21.10 If a player who has registered for a Supplementary Score subsequently does not return a card
an increase in handicap of 0.1 must be applied.
21.11 Returns may be subject to action under Clause 23 B if malpractice is suspected.
21.12 When Supplementary Scores are returned at an Away club the Member:
(a) must register his/her intent to play in the manner directed by that club;
(b) must return the card to the Away Club; and
(c) must ensure that the score is returned to his/her Home Club, taking a copy or duplicate
card if necessary.
21.13 When a Member returns a Supplementary Score at an Away Club that club:
(a) must retain the card as for cards submitted by Home players;
(b) should, if the club’s ISV software so permits, enter the score into the system and
return it to the Home Club via the CDH; and
(c) shall assist the Home Club, if necessary, in confirming whether the player has
discharged his/her responsibilities in ensuring that all Supplementary Scores from
Away clubs have been returned.
Note: In submitting Supplementary Scores, players need to ensure that they are not in breach of
Rule 5 (Practice) of the R&A Rules of Golf. A Supplementary Score may be submitted after
the final round of the day of a multi-round competition.
21/1 Return of a Supplementary Score in a Non Qualifying Competition
Q. A club committee has declared a competition to be a Non-Qualifying Competition. May

competitors play in the competition and concurrently return a Supplementary Score?
A. No.
22. NINE-HOLE QUALIFYING COMPETITIONS
Evidence from golf clubs indicates that a significant number of Members, due to increasing demands
on their working and family life for example, are unable to play 18-hole Qualifying Competitions
frequently enough to establish and maintain a handicap representative of their potential ability.
Consequently, in response to the changing needs of the game and the Members of our Affiliated Clubs,
Qualifying Competitions over nine holes continue to be offered within the UHS to provide additional
opportunities for the return of Qualifying Scores.
Nine-Hole Qualifying Competitions are proving to be particularly attractive to clubs and their Members
in summer evenings and in the restricted daylight hours of winter weekends. They are also the means
by which a greater number of senior golfers are making returns for handicap purposes.
The format for Nine-Hole Qualifying Competitions is either Stableford or Medal; however all scores
are treated as Stableford for handicap adjustment purposes. A ‘neutral’ 18 points for the nine holes
not played is added to the nine-hole Stableford score to determine whether players have played
within, or better than, their Buffer Zones. For handicap purposes, when a player fails to return a
score within their Buffer Zone the points accumulated over the nine holes played is doubled. This
50
provides a more realistic indication of ability for handicap review than the former practice of adding 18
points to the outside of Buffer Zone scores.
Whilst the UHS offers opportunities to play Nine-Hole Qualifying Competitions there is no desire to
change the traditional way in which competitive golf is played over 18 holes.
Representations to CONGU® have suggested that it would be of benefit to clubs to be able to offer 9-
Hole Open Competitions. Accordingly these have been incorporated into the UHS, to be run in the
same way as Club 9-Hole competitions.
Qualifying Competitions over Designated Nine-Hole Courses may be conducted by Affiliated Clubs for
all Members, (i.e. both Home and Away players) and Visitors in Open Competitions. The scores must
be recorded as Qualifying Scores in the Player Handicap Records (or returned to the Visitors Home
Club in an Open Competition via the CDH), subject to the following provisions:
22.1 The Designated Nine-Hole Course shall have a Standard Scratch Score issued by the Union
and expressed as an 18-hole value. Standard Scratch Scores may be allocated for any
number of tees over the Designated Nine-Hole Course.
22.2 Nine-Hole Qualifying Competitions may be in Stableford or Medal format, though
those in Medal format are simply a Result Presentation Option and handicap
adjustments will be made on the basis of the Stableford Points generated as a result
of the strokes on each hole.
22.3 A Nine-Hole Competition Handicap Allowance must be calculated as follows:
[Exact Handicap + Nine-Hole SSS – (Nine-Hole Par x2)] / 2
For example, if the player has an Exact Handicap of 12.8 and the Nine-Hole SSS and Par
are 69 and 34 respectively the Nine-Hole Competition Handicap Allowance is:
[12.8 + 69 – (34 x2)] / 2= [12.8 + 69 – 68] / 2 = 6.9 rounded to 7.
Where the Nine-Hole Competition Handicap Allowances calculated for players differ from
their Playing Handicaps, the Committee must make the players aware of their total stroke
allowances for the competition. It is recommended that the Nine-Hole Competition Handicap
Allowance is recorded on the player’s scorecard alongside the player’s Playing Handicap.
(see also Note 1 below).
22.4 Handicap strokes must be taken according to the Stroke Index for the Designated Nine-Hole
Course.
For example, in the nine holes to be played the stroke indices in hole-number sequence are as follows:
Hole No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
SI from the 18-

14 10 4 16 2 8 6 12 18
hole scorecard
SI for the nine-

7 5 2 8 1 4 3 6 9
hole scorecard
The player in the example outlined in Clause 22.3, in receipt of 7 strokes for the nine holes, would
receive them at holes 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 and 8.
22.5 Players in all Handicap Categories may return scores for handicap purposes in Nine-Hole
Qualifying Competitions.
22.6 Initially, eighteen Stableford points must be added to the result over Nine-Holes to obtain a
Qualifying. As the Handicap Allowance calculation in 22.3 above sets a target to-handicap
score of 36 points, this Qualifying Score is assessed against 36 points and the Buffer Zones
in 22.9 below. A Qualifying Score higher than 36 points will generate a negative Nett
Differential and the Exact Handicap reduced to the extent dictated by that Nett Differential. A
Qualifying Score within the relevant Buffer Zone shall result in no adjustment to the Exact
Handicap. A Qualifying Score which is below the relevant Buffer Zone shall result in the
Exact Handicap increasing by 0.1. Note that no CSS calculation is carried out for Nine-Hole
competitions and there is no situation where a Reduction Only outcome can arise.
51
22.7 For the purposes of the Handicap Record, and hence the Annual Review, the treatment of
scores above the Buffer Zone is different. Players returning a Nett Differential above the
relevant Buffer Zone shall have recorded a sum equal to double the number of actual points
scored over the nine holes. Players returning a Nett Differential within or below the relevant
Buffer Zone shall continue to have recorded the sum of the actual number of points scored
over the nine holes plus the neutral eighteen points.
22.8 A Competition Scratch Score shall not be calculated. If a competition is abandoned for any
valid reason players returning Nett Differentials below the Standard Scratch Score must have
their Exact Handicaps reduced to the extent dictated by the Nett Differential. A Nett
Differential of zero or above shall not result in a handicap increase.
22.9 The following Buffer Zones apply to Qualifying Scores over Nine-Holes:
Handicap Category Buffer Zone (Stableford Points)

1 36
2&3 35-36
4, 5 & 6 34-36
22.10 A Qualifying Competition over nine holes must not be part of an 18-hole Qualifying
Competition.
Note: When playing in nine-hole Qualifying Competitions or submitting a nine-hole Supplementary

Score at an Away Club of which he is a Member or as a Visitor in an Open Competition, the
player is responsible for verifying that his correct Exact Handicap is used in the calculation
of the Competition Handicap Allowance under 22.3 above.
23. REVIEW OF HANDICAPS
The Annual Review (AR) is an essential part of the handicapping process. The AR is an audit procedure
whereby the Handicap Committee assesses annually the handicaps of all Members so that it is satisfied
that players’ handicaps reflect, as far as practicable, their current playing abilities.
It cannot be over-emphasised that uniformity of handicapping can only be achieved if all Handicap
Committees apply the same basic principles in the same way. This applies as much to the conduct and
application of the Annual Review and General Play Adjustments as it does to ensuring that all the
correct procedures are followed in the routine administration of handicaps related to players’ scores in
Qualifying Competitions.
Many Handicap Committees will consider they have the experience to carry out the AR without help,
but even these committees may not approach the assessment of player performance in the same way,
and may reach different conclusions based on the same data. After considerable research into scoring
patterns and player performance a computerised system of player assessment has been developed to
assist Handicap Committees conduct the AR. Since the introduction of the AR procedure it has been
established that the process, as presented in the Annual Review report prepared by the licensed
handicapping software, provides a robust method for assessing players’ scoring potential based on the
returns made in Qualifying Competitions and their abilities as represented by their handicaps.
In carrying out the AR, Handicap Committees should recognise that the majority of players who have
returned a reasonable number of Qualifying Scores through the year will most probably have had
appropriate handicap adjustments applied by the UHS to take account of any change in playing ability.
However, there are occasionally players who may be improving somewhat faster than the handicap
changes performed by the handicapping process, or who are declining in ability at a rate that the
application of the 0.1 increase per round is insufficient to reflect the deterioration in scoring potential. It
is this latter group in particular that the AR process can identify and allow Handicap Committees to
apply increases to rectify the imbalance that has developed between the player’s handicap and playing
ability.
As three Qualifying Scores are the accepted minimum number to maintain a competition handicap the
AR procedure does recommend handicap adjustments for players who have returned between three
and seven Qualifying Scores. Such a low number of Qualifying Scores does not allow for the
assessment of player ability from the pattern of scores. The recommendations for handicap
52
adjustments for players submitting fewer than seven scores per annum are, therefore, made only after
applying a much larger margin for error, than that applied to players who have returned seven or more
scores.
(A) ANNUAL REVIEW
23.1 The Handicap Committee is required to carry out an Annual Review of the handicaps of all
Members for whom it is the Home Club – see Clause 7.7(i). This review must be conducted
in compliance with the requirements of Appendix M.
23.2 If the Handicap Committee determines that a player’s Exact Handicap is too high and does
not reflect his current playing ability the Handicap Committee should, subject to the
provisions of Clause 23.4, reduce his Exact Handicap to the figure it considers to be
appropriate. Except when a Union determines otherwise, the reduction must not be less
than one whole stroke. Fractional reductions in excess of one stroke are permitted.
In Ireland, fractional reductions of less than one whole stroke are permitted.
23.3 (a) If the Handicap Committee determines that a player’s Exact Handicap is too low and
does not reflect his current playing ability the Handicap Committee should, subject to
the provisions of Clause 23.4, recommend to the Union, or Area Authority if so
delegated, that his Exact Handicap should be increased to the figure it considers
appropriate. Except when a Union determines otherwise, the increase shall be not
less than one whole stroke. Fractional increases in excess of one stroke are permitted.
In Ireland, fractional increases of less than one stroke are permitted.
(b) In the event of a Union delegating to Home Clubs the unconditional authority to
increase the handicaps of players in any of the Categories 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 Home Clubs
need not submit to the Union or Area Authority proposals in respect of any changes of
handicaps of players in the nominated Categories.
In Ireland this authority is not so delegated and all proposed increases in handicap
must be submitted to the appropriate Area Authority for prior approval.
23.4 When the Handicap Committee has decided that the:
(a) Exact Handicap of a Category 1 player should be reduced or increased; or the
(b) Exact Handicap of a Category 2 player should be reduced into Category 1; or the
(c) Exact Handicap of any player should be increased (subject to any direction made
pursuant to Clause 4.5(a) and 23.3(b))
then the Handicap Committee must refer the matter to the Union, or Area Authority if so
delegated, with its recommended adjustment. The Union or Area Authority shall then
authorise the recommended variation, reject the recommendation or refer the matter back
to the Handicap Committee for further consideration. The Union or Area Authority must be
supplied with all the information upon which the recommendation is based and with any
further information required.
England and Ireland delegate responsibility for the approval of Category 1 adjustments to
their Area Authorities. Scotland and Wales make no delegation under this clause.
23.5 The Handicap Committee must advise a player of any change of handicap under this clause
and the change will become effective when the player becomes aware of the adjustment.
Unlike changes to handicap resulting from participation in Qualifying Competitions, adjustments of

handicap under this Clause are not of a routine nature and often cannot be anticipated by the players
affected. Consequently, it is not considered to be sufficient for a Handicap Committee merely to post a
list of changes on the club notice board. Individual Members should be notified in writing or by some
other agreed method of communication adopted by the club.
23.6 The Union, Area Authority or Home Club shall direct the appeal procedure to be made
available to a player should he be dissatisfied with a determination under the foregoing sub-
clauses.
Note: A computer generated report has been designed to assist the Handicap Committee in the
Annual Review – see Appendix M
53
23/1 Requirement for an Annual Review of Handicaps
Q. Why is an Annual Review of handicaps necessary? Surely the UHS, by using Qualifying Scores
to adjust handicaps does this routinely.
A. For the majority of players who play regularly in competitions this is correct. However, there are
a number of reasons why the Handicap Committee must carry out an Annual Review including
the following:
• even for those players who take part with reasonable regularity in Qualifying Competitions,
particularly those of declining ability, the system can be too slow to react to changes in their
standard of play and, by looking at all the returns over the twelve month period, trends that may
not be apparent on a week-to-week basis are highlighted;
• to promote fair and equitable handicapping, it is just as important to increase handicaps, where
necessary, as it is to reduce them;
• in general, players who have been recently allotted a handicap have the potential to improve
more rapidly than the system can take account of, and such players should be reviewed at the
end of their early seasons to ensure that they are correctly handicapped;
• players may be infrequent competitors in Qualifying Competitions and so have few opportunities
to reduce their handicaps in line with their improved standard of play. They may compete
frequently, however, with success in other forms of golf and their handicaps may require
adjustment to reflect this.
For these reasons the Annual Review is an important element in the handicapping process at
every club. It should be carried out by the Handicap Committee which should have as much
information as is available to it when conducting the review.
23/2 Conducting the Annual Review
Q. The Handicap Committee is required to review the handicaps of all Members annually. Our club
has a large membership, is a review of this nature not an impossible task?
A. It is recognised that, for large memberships, the Annual Review is difficult to undertake effectively.
To address this problem a feature, ’The Annual Review Report‘, has been incorporated into the
licensed software packages. This report is designed to assess the performance of all players who
have returned three or more Qualifying Scores in the review period and is based on the
expected playing performance of players with respect to their Handicap Category. The report
‘flags-up’ players who require consideration as detailed in Appendix M. It should be emphasised
that it is not the intention that every player ‘flagged-up’ qualifies automatically for an increase or
decrease in handicap. Any adjustment should only be made when all the evidence available on
the player has been considered.
It is recommended that the Annual Review should be conducted over the winter period from 1
October at a time convenient to the Handicap Committee or as directed from time to time by the
Union
54
23/3 Why are the Annual Review Recommendations not Automatically Processed?
Q. If CONGU® is satisfied that the AR procedure provides a robust method of assessing the
correctness of a player’s handicap why are the handicap adjustments not applied automatically?
A. The formula linking scores to handicap is based on players fulfilling their responsibilities under
the UHS; i.e. trying at all times to make the best score possible on the day, and where this is the
case there is substantial evidence that the procedure does reflect reality.
It is known that there are players who do not always fulfil their responsibilities and use the system
to increase their chances of success. It is impossible for a computer program to differentiate
between the player who is genuinely trying his best but struggling to play to his handicap and the
player who is deliberately building a handicap. An automatic system based purely on the scores
submitted would increase the handicap of the latter which could allow the player to gain further
advantage. In addition, the software can only take into account Qualifying Scores. Many players
play a substantial number of match play and other Non-Qualifying Competitions which are not
included in the analysis. It is only the Handicap Committee taking all factors into consideration
before ratifying any recommendation that can make the necessary differentiation and
determination.
23/4 Applying the Recommendations of the Annual Review
Q. A player having been increased after the AR appeals as he does not want a higher handicap than
he had. Would the Handicap Committee be justified in rescinding the recommended handicap
increase as it considers having a player with too low a handicap can only affect the player’s ability
to play to his handicap and affects no-one else?
A. The Handicap Committee would be incorrect in thinking that having too low a handicap only
affects the individual. In fact not acting on recommendations leaving players with handicaps that
are too low could well affect every other handicap in the club, due to the potential impact on the
Competition Scratch Score (CSS). This is particularly relevant in Qualifying Competitions with
small field sizes. Increases recommended in the AR Report should be implemented unless the
Handicap Committee has good reason (e.g. performance in Non Qualifying Competitions, match
play etc) not to apply an adjustment.
(B) GENERAL PLAY ADJUSTMENT
23.7 In exceptional circumstances the Handicap Committee may adjust the handicap of a player
in the period between Annual Reviews if there is compelling evidence that his Exact
Handicap does not reflect his current playing ability. Appendix M must be consulted for
guidance.
In Ireland, where appropriate, handicaps shall also be adjusted in respect of relevant Non-
Qualifying Scores – see Clause 4.5(b). Adjustments must be calculated on the Nett
Differential between the actual score, adjusted under Clause 19 if required, and the SSS of
the course played.
23.8 General Play Adjustments should be made in accordance with the provisions of Clauses
23.2 to 23.6. Since a General Play Adjustment is not an adjustment that a player can
anticipate Handicap Committees must advise players when such an adjustment has been
applied.
23.9 The Handicap Committee or other body organising a competition at a club which is not the
player’s Home Club may, if it considers that his handicap is too high, reduce that handicap.
Any reduction made under this clause shall apply only to the competition for which it is made.
Note: If the handicap of any player is reduced other than to the extent required by Clause 20 or by
the correct application of Clause 23, the player’s handicap will not be a CONGU® Handicap
and must not be used in any competition for which a CONGU® Handicap is required.
55
(C) EXCEPTIONAL SCORING REDUCTION (ESR)
It is accepted within the UHS that a player may on occasion return a low nett Qualifying Score.
Such a score will automatically attract a handicap reduction within the UHS, relative to the player’s
Handicap Category.
However, if a player returns more frequent low scores than would be expected for their Handicap
Category this probably indicates a significant change of golfing ability. This can occur, for
example, if a beginner or junior golfer is rapidly improving, if a player’s circumstances have
changed allowing him/her to play more competitive golf or if an initial handicap allotment has
been made based on limited information available on a new Member’s golfing ability and requires
realignment. The ESR mechanism makes a further reduction in the player’s handicap, based on
both the level of the scores returned and their frequency, in accordance with the Exceptional
Scoring Reduction Table below.
When a player returns a Qualifying Score with a Nett Differential of -4, or below, in a calendar
year this triggers the ESR algorithm, setting an initial marker. An ESR calculation will be initiated
the next time a Nett Differential of -4 or lower is returned by the player. The average Nett
Differential of the two scores is then compared to the number of rounds in the sequence to
establish an ESR. For this reason reductions of less than one stroke may be recommended as,
when combined with the decrease applied by the system, the overall reduction will always be
more than one stroke.
The case for applying an ESR increases as the average of the two Nett Differentials becomes
lower and the number of scores in the sequence reduces.
23.10 At the discretion of the Union, Handicap Committees must, following submission of two low
Qualifying Scores (Nett Differential of -4 or better), by a Member, within a calendar year
apply an Exceptional Scoring Reduction which. will further decrease a player’s handicap,
over and above any handicap decreases already applied by the UHS.
EXCEPTIONAL SCORING HANDICAP REDUCTION TABLE
Number of Qualifying Scores in the

sequence
4 or less 5 to 9 10 or more
-4.0 to -6.0 1 stroke 0.5 stroke No change

Average of the two
Low Qualifying
-6.5 to -9.5 2 strokes 1 stroke 0.5 stroke
Score Nett
Differentials
-10 or less 3 strokes 2 strokes 2 strokes
England, Ireland and Wales direct that the ESR process is applied by Affiliated Clubs
within their jurisdictions. Scotland directs that the ESR process is not applied.
23.11 The Exceptional Scoring Reduction does not apply to Category 1 players.
23.12 An ESR will be restricted where it would reduce a Category 2 player into Category 1.
Handicap reductions in such situations will only be able to reduce a player’s handicap to
5.5.
23.13 Each chronological pair of ESRs in each calendar year is considered independently of the
next or previous pair of ESRs; there is no compounding of scores.
23.14 An ESR is triggered within a Nine-Hole Qualifying Competition by a score of 22 points or
more for the nine holes played i.e a score of 40 points once the neutral 18 points have been
added.
23.15 Although calculated automatically by the ISV software, such adjustments are not ones that
can be anticipated by players. Accordingly, Handicap Committees must advise players
when such a reduction has been applied and the handicap adjustment only comes into
effect when the player has been so advised.
56
Application of the Exceptional Scoring Reduction Table
Example 1:
• A player with an Exact Handicap of 18.6 returns a sequence of Nett Differentials -4, 8, 7, 5, 11, 3,
-7, ending after the last score with a CONGU® UHS calculated Exact Handicap of 15.7, Playing
Handicap 16;
• The first -4 Nett Differential returned triggers the ESR process;
• The -7 Nett Differential initiates an ESR calculation;
• The number of rounds in the sequence is 7;
• The average Nett Differential of the two Exceptional Scores returned is -5.5;
• From the above Exceptional Scoring Reduction Table an ESR of 0.5 stroke is applied further
reducing the player’s CONGU® Exact Handicap to 15.2, Playing Handicap 15.
Example 2:
• A player of Exact Handicap 7.6 has the same Nett Differentials as in Example 1 above and his
CONGU® UHS calculated Exact Handicap at the end of the sequence was 5.9;
• The ESR process makes a further reduction of 0.5 stroke to that applied automatically;
• However as this would reduce the player’s handicap to 5.4 the ESR process would adjust to give
a 0.4 stroke reduction taking the player to the lower limit of Category 2, i.e. a revised CONGU®
Handicap of 5.5.
23/5 Adjusting Newly Allocated Playing Handicaps
Q. Handicap Committees are advised to monitor the early returns of players with newly allocated
handicaps. In what circumstance should the Handicap Committee take action?
A. Assigning handicaps to new members is one of the most important functions of a Handicap
Committee. Following the inputting of the score details from the requisite number of cards, the
computer program calculates a handicap. This should be regarded as a recommendation that
should be reviewed with reference to factors such as time of year, prevailing weather conditions,
previous playing history, and the most recent past handicap held, where applicable, before a
handicap is allotted.
The following are examples of instances where the Handicap Committee did not, or was not able to,
determine this essential information and the players were awarded initial handicaps that were higher
than the players were entitled to.
Handicap Early Scoring

Player Comments
Allocated Sequence
A 23 -2, -2, NR, -2, -5 After 6 months handicap was 12.7
B 15 0, -3, 0, -6 After 12 Competitions handicap was 8.1
C 27 -1, 0, -7, 1 After 12 Competitions handicap was 20.2
In allocating and reviewing a new handicap the Handicap Committee has to be seen to be fair not only
to the player but also the rest of the membership. If initial handicaps allocated to new members are too
liberal the new members enjoy an unfair competitive advantage.
In the examples cited above, the Handicap Committee would be justified in applying a General Play
Adjustment after the return of early scores to adjust the respective handicaps to a level more reflective
of playing ability.
57
23/6 Arbitrary General Play Adjustments
Q. My club routinely reduces the handicap of players who play more than five shots under their
handicap by at least one shot more than the reduction applied by the UHS. They call this a
General Play cut is this acceptable?
A. Absolutely not, if the score is just one isolated score. Except in the case of a newly handicapped
Member’s initial Qualifying Score(s), an extra handicap reduction on the basis of just one
exceptional score cannot be justified in any circumstances. A General Play Adjustment is exactly
that - a reduction / increase based on the general play of the player. However, if there is a pattern
over time that indicates the player is playing better than expected for his Handicap Category then
a Handicap Committee would be justified in applying a General Play Adjustment.
General Play Adjustments are merely reactions to exceptional situations that can occur through
the season e.g. within small field competitions where handicap increases may be restricted due
to the CSS calculating as CSS=SSS+3 R/O. Any adjustments should be made under the same
criteria used in the Annual Review. It would not be expected, on other than medical grounds, for
a General Play Adjustment to be used to make an upward adjustment of handicap. Any such
adjustment should be applied at the Annual Review.
(D) CONTINUOUS HANDICAP REVIEW
Examination of scoring patterns shows that a series of seven or more consecutive increases of 0.1 is
indicative that a player may be under-handicapped The most frequent causes of such a situation are:
• a decline in the player’s ability often associated with increasing age or as a result of change in
health or other personal circumstances; and
• a previous large reduction in handicap brought about by a ’day in the sun‘ score or ’purple patch‘
uncharacteristic of the general performance of a player and which is likely to be unsustainable.
In such cases, the rebalancing mechanism of 0.1 increases can take a long time for a player to
reach a handicap reflective of underlying ability.
For Handicap Committees it is often difficult to identify such players at an early stage with the result
that the player may lose interest in competing. In addition, under-handicapped players who do compete
can exert unwarranted upward pressure on the CSS calculation. To assist in identifying such players a
report has been developed within the ISV software to list players who have seven or more consecutive
0.1 increases (excluding any Reduction Only CSS competitions or abandoned competitions). Advice
on using the report is now available in Appendix Q of this manual.
23.16 Handicap Committees should review the handicaps of players to identify those players who are
under-handicapped by running the Continuous Review Report on a quarterly basis during the playing
season. This report runs on a rolling basis and does not re-set at the end of a calendar year.
23.17 Using the principles of the Annual Review, the General Play Adjustment and the advice
document on the CONGU® website, Handicap Committees should apply a Continuous Review
Increase (CRI) when deemed appropriate and continue to monitor the performance of such players
closely. In Ireland, any increase must be sanctioned by the Area Authority before being applied.
23.18 As a CRI is not an adjustment that a player can anticipate Handicap Committees must advise
players when such an increase has been applied.

5(a) Consequences if a reduction of handicap under Clause 23 (Review of Handicaps) is
inappropriately applied.
5(b) General Play Adjustment applied at a time when the player has not returned relevant ‘Away’
scores – consequent action.
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24. SUSPENSION AND L0SS OF HANDICAP
SUSPENSION AND LOSS OF HANDICAP
24.1 The handicap of a player shall be suspended by a Union, Area Authority or a player’s Home
Club if in its opinion he has:
(a) constantly or blatantly failed to comply with the obligations and responsibilities imposed
by the UHS, or
(b) conducted himself in a manner prejudicial to the interests of his Union, Area Authority or
Home Club or to the Game of Golf.
The player must be notified of the period of suspension and of any other conditions imposed.
A player’s handicap must not be suspended without first affording him the opportunity of
appearing before the disciplinary committee or other body.
24.2 Disciplinary proceedings in respect of an alleged offence committed at a player’s Home Club
shall be initiated and determined by his Home Club. In all other cases, Unions shall direct
whether the Union, Area Authority or Home Club shall hear and determine the issue. If a
player is a Member of more than one club, a club that is not his Home Club may not suspend
his handicap.
24.3 Any player who requests his Home Club to confirm or certify his handicap for competition
entry purposes shall be deemed to have had adequate opportunity of reporting to his
Home Club any relevant away scores on or prior to the date and time at which the
confirmation or CONGU® Handicap Certificate of handicap is requested. If it is
established to the satisfaction of the player’s Home Club, after due investigation, that a
player has so failed to report away scores his handicap may be suspended for such
period as his Home Club considers appropriate.
Whilst his handicap is suspended a player shall not be eligible to compete in or enter any
golf event which requires a CONGU® Handicap as a condition of entry.
Following a written request from a player whose handicap has been suspended
accompanied by full details of all relevant omitted scores, his Home Club may reinstate his
handicap appropriately adjusted. Home Clubs do not require the authority of the Union or
Area Authority to proceed under this sub-clause.
24.4 The Union, Area Authority or Home Club shall direct the appeal procedure to be made
available to a player should he be dissatisfied with a determination under the foregoing sub-
clauses.
24.5 If a player’s membership is suspended from his Home Club his handicap shall be suspended
automatically until his membership is reinstated.
24.6 The suspension of a player’s handicap shall apply at all Affiliated Clubs of which the player
is or becomes a Member during the period of suspension.
24.7 A player’s handicap is lost immediately he ceases to be a Member of an Affiliated Club or
loses his amateur status.
24.8 Whilst a player’s handicap is suspended or has been lost, he shall not enter or compete in
any competition which requires a competitor to be the holder of a CONGU ® Handicap as
designated by the UHS.
24.9 If a player resigns from, or is expelled by, his Home Club whilst his handicap is suspended,
he cannot be allotted a handicap by another club until the period of suspension has expired.
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25. STATUS OF HANDICAP
25.1 The handicap of any player, in Categories 1 to 6 who returns a minimum of three Qualifying
Scores, during the previous calendar year, shall be marked as a ‘Competition Handicap’
with a ‘c’ annotation. If a player fails to meet this minimum requirement of Qualifying Scores
in any calendar year the Competition Handicap status is lost but will be regained once the
player has complied with the procedure set out in Clause 26.3.
25.2 A Union or Affiliated Club may direct the status of handicap that is acceptable for entry into
competitions where a CONGU® Handicap is required.
Note 1: Handicap Committees have discretionary powers in very exceptional circumstances to
allow the retention of a ‘Competition Handicap’ where ill health or injury has precluded a
player from returning the specified number of scores in accordance with Clause 25.1.
Note 2: The scores submitted for the Initial Handicap allotment under Clause 16 are Qualifying
Scores and, if all are returned within a calendar year, therefore satisfy the minimum
requirement under this clause.
26. REGAINING A HANDICAP
FOLLOWING SUSPENSION AND LOSS OF HANDICAP
26.1 A CONGU® Handicap is lost when a player ceases to be a Member of an Affiliated Club.
When a player resigns from a club and joins another there is often a time interval between
the two memberships. If the handicap of a player is to be restored within twelve months of
the date on which his handicap was lost, or suspended, it must be reinstated at the same
handicap the player last held. In restoring the handicap of a player whose ‘c’ status handicap
has been lost in such circumstances that ‘c’ status shall remain valid for the remainder of
the calendar year of resignation and for the full following calendar year. In all other cases
the player shall be allotted a new handicap after he has complied with the requirements of
Clause 16.
When a player has transferred to a new club within the same jurisdiction that player’s CDH number
transfers with him. Clubs must obtain that number from the player (even if there has been a period
of time when the player was not a Member of either club) and must follow the guidance of the
software provider(s) to ensure that the CDH number is transferred correctly.
In Ireland, a player transferring to a new club obtains a new CDH number.
26.2 When restoring a handicap which has been lost or suspended for more than twelve months
the Handicap Committee, in addition to proceeding as required by Clause 16, must give due
and full consideration to the handicap the player last held (see Clause 16.3). A Category 1
handicap must not be allotted without the approval of the Union or Area Authority if so
delegated.
England and Ireland delegate responsibility for approval of Category 1 restorations to their
Area Authorities. `Scotland and Wales make no delegation under this clause.
ALTERING THE STATUS OF A HANDICAP
26.3 A player whose status of handicap has under the provision of Clause 25.1 or Clause 25.3
not been marked as a ’Competition Handicap’ can regain a Competition Status Handicap
by submitting 3 qualifying scores which could be 18 hole competitions, nine-hole
competitions or Supplementary Scores. Each of these scores shall be entered in the
player’s Handicap Record and shall adjust the Exact Handicap in accordance with the
provisions of Clause 17 or Clause 22, as appropriate. Once the requisite returns have been
entered into the player’s Handicap Record the Competition Status shall be re-instated
subject to a review by the Handicap Committee as detailed in Clause 26.4 below.
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26.4 When a Competition Handicap status is being regained in accordance with Clause 26.3 and
once the requisite scores have been entered into the player’s Handicap Record, the
Handicap Committee should review the handicap in a manner consistent with the principles
of an Annual Review. The options available are:
• Re-allot the player’s handicap at a different level taking all information on the player’s
previous handicap, current ability and previous golfing achievements into account; or
• Re-allot the player’s handicap at the revised exact handicap; or
• Defer the re-allotment for further consideration by the Handicap Committee.
26.5 The review under Clause 26.4 may not be used to reduce the Exact Handicap of a player to
Category 1 without the approval of the Union or Area Authority if so delegated.
England and Ireland delegate responsibility for approval of reductions of Exact Handicaps
to Category 1 to their Area Authorities. `Scotland and Wales make no delegation under
this clause.
61
PART FIVE
APPENDICES
A. Golf Course Measurement

B. Competition Scratch Score
C. Stableford/Nett Double Bogey Adjustment
D. Par and Stableford Conversion Table
E. Table of Handicap Adjustments
F. Handicap Allowances for Different Formats of Competition
G. Handicap Stroke Index
H. Computer Software Requirements
I. Player Handicap Information
J. Removed
K. Removed
L. UHS Compliance Checklist
M. Guidelines for Annual Review/general Play Adjustment
N. Resolution of Ties
O. Events in which Competitors Play from Different Sets of Tees
P. Disqualified Scores in Qualifying Competitions
Q. Advice on Running the Continuous Handicap Review
63
APPENDIX A
GOLF COURSE MEASUREMENT
It is important that golf courses are measured accurately. Measurement must be conducted using
surveying equipment having an accuracy of +/- 6 inches at a distance of 250 yards.
1. ‘Competent’ Person
Measurement must be carried out by a person competent (e.g. a civil engineer, quantity
surveyor or architect etc) trained in the use of the use of the surveying equipment, subject to
review by the Union that is responsible for the issue of Standard Scratch Scores to Affiliated
Clubs.
2. Measurement –
2.1 Each hole must be measured from the Distance Point to the centre of the green in the
horizontal plane along the designed line of play, relative to each tee.
2.2 The Distance Points used as the starting points in the measurements should satisfy
the requirements of Decision 7(b)
2.3 A hole with a dogleg must be measured in a straight line from the tee to the pivot point
and then to the centre of the green or the next pivot point, if applicable.
2.4 Measurements must be made for every set of tees used for Qualifying Competitions.
Note: Measurement from green to tee is not an acceptable procedure.
3. Measuring Procedure
Examples of a procedure for the measurement of a par 3, par 4 and par 5 hole are illustrated
in Figures 1, 2 and 3 respectively.
In the case of a hole with a dogleg if the pivot point is not easily discernible, a pivot point that
is approximately 250 [210] yards from the set of tees that are most commonly used for
Qualifying Competitions should be selected.
Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3

Measuring set-up for a Par-3 Hole Measuring set-up for a Par-4 Hole Measuring set-up for a Par-5 Hole
Key: Instrument Set-Up Reflector Set-Up
4. Tee Definition
Clubs should endeavour to maintain their course at its measured length at all times for
Qualifying Competitions. However, it is accepted that the placing of tees for competitions will
be subject to many influencing factors, particularly the condition of teeing grounds, which may
mean on some occasions the precise definition of the Competition Tee cannot be satisfied.
This should not, of itself, render the competition Non-Qualifying. Such a tee placement may be
regarded as temporary and the provisions of Clause 13.1 would then apply, provided that the
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‘Temporary’ tee still meets the requirements of the Rules of Golf. Thus in instances where a
tee(s), does not meet the precise Competition Tee definition, provided that the course is not
shortened (or lengthened) overall by more than 100 yards the Competition should remain
Qualifying and the allocated Standard Scratch Score will apply.
If for any reason the course has been shortened, or lengthened, by more than 100 yards, but less
than 300 yards overall, then the competition should be allowed to remain Qualifying even if the
deviation is discovered after the competition has commenced. In such circumstances the allocated
Standard Scratch Score should be reduced / increased by one as required by Clause 13.2.
It should be understood that in this context ’overall‘ refers to the total nett change to the measured
length with each reduction in hole length being subtracted from, and each increase added to the
measured yardage.
65
APPENDIX B
COMPETITION SCRATCH SCORE PROCEDURE
Number of Competitors
(including ‘No Returns’ Percentages Rounded %
and ‘DQ’s’)
Category 1 A A x 100 ÷ D F F to nearest 10% I
Category 2 B B x 100 ÷ D G G to nearest 10% J
Categories 3 & 4 C 100 minus boxes I & J K
Total D Total 100%
Number of Nett Scores

in Category Buffer Zone or Box H to nearest
E E x 100 ÷ D H L
better whole number
(Categories 1,2,3 &4)
PROCEDURE
1. Club Competitions
1.1 Enter in Boxes A, B and C the number of competitors holding a CONGU ® Handicap,
including ‘No Returns’ and those disqualified for any reason, from each of the Categories
1, 2, 3 and 4. Note that players with a non ‘c’ status handicap should be excluded from
this calculation
1.2 Enter the total number of such competitors in Categories 1, 2, 3 and 4 in Box D.
1.3 Enter in Box E the number of such competitors in Categories 1, 2, 3 and 4 who have
returned nett scores, including those corrected under the provision of Clause 17.1(c),
(Disqualified Scores) in their Handicap Category Buffer Zone and better after the
application of Clause 19.
For Par/Bogey and Stableford Competitions the lower Buffer Zone boundaries are:
Handicap Lower Buffer Zone Boundary

Category Stableford Points Par/Bogey
1 36 + (Par - SSS) -1 (Par - SSS) -1
2 36 + (Par - SSS) -2 (Par - SSS) -2
3 36 + (Par - SSS) -3 (Par - SSS) -3
4 36 + (Par - SSS) -4 (Par - SSS) -4
For example, a Category 2 player playing a golf course with a SSS of 71 and a Par of
70 would have a Lower Buffer Boundary of 36 + (70-71) – 2 i.e. 33 Stableford Points.
On the other hand, a Category 2 player playing a golf course with a SSS of 71 and a Par
of 72 would have a Higher Buffer Boundary of 36 +(72-71) -2 i.e. 35 Stableford points.
1.4 In Boxes F, G and H enter the percentages of the adjacent boxes in relation to Box D
as indicated.
1.5 Round the number in Box F to the nearest 10% and enter the result in Box I. (5%
upwards).
1.6 Round the number in Box G to the nearest 10% and enter the result in Box J. (5%
upwards).
Note: Occasionally the rounding of Boxes F and G will produce a total of Boxes I and J in excess of
100. When this occurs, round the number in Box G downwards and insert the amended number
in Box J.
66
1.7 Enter in Box K the total of Boxes I and J deducted from 100. (The percentage in Box
K may not coincide with the rounded percentage Box C would give if calculated.)
1.8 Round the number in Box H to the nearest whole number (0.5 upwards) and enter the
result in Box L.
1.9 Refer to Table A in Appendix B and select the row that contains the percentages
shown in Boxes I, J and K.
1.10 In the row selected, find the column which includes the number in Box L. The
Standard Scratch Score adjustment is shown in the heading of that column and that
number is added to or deducted from the Standard Scratch Score to provide the
Competition Scratch Score. For each Qualifying Competition the Competition Scratch
Score replaces the Standard Scratch Score for all handicap purposes. The Buffer
Zones are applied to the Competition Scratch Score and not to the Standard Scratch
Score. (A worked example is given below on pages 66-68.)
1.11 For competitions with ten or more competitors in Handicap Categories 1, 2, 3 and 4, the
heading R/O at the top of a column in the Table indicates that scores returned shall not
result in handicap increases. Reductions of handicap will be made on the basis that the
Competition Scratch Score is three strokes higher than the Standard Scratch Score.
1.12 When in competitions with fewer than ten competitors in Categories 1, 2, 3 and 4 no
player has returned a nett score in their Buffer Zone or better, the best nett score
returned by a player in Category 1, 2, 3 or 4 will be used in conjunction with Table B to
determine the Competition Scratch Score. Refer to the appropriate field size row and
select the score from the top row that reflects the difference between the best nett score
returned and the player’s respective Buffer Zone, to determine the CSS calculation. See
example calculations below Table B.
1.13 When the number of competitors in Categories 1, 2, 3 and 4 is five or fewer and if the
calculated Competition Scratch Score is equal to or less than the Standard Scratch
Score the Competition Scratch Score shall be the same as the Standard Scratch Score.
1.14 When a competition has been abandoned for any valid reason, reductions of handicaps
shall be on the basis that the Competition Scratch Score is equal to the Standard Scratch
Score, but no handicaps shall be increased - see Clause 18.7.
1.15 In the event of all the competitors in a Qualifying Competition holding handicaps in
Category 5 for women, the Competition Scratch Score shall be the Standard Scratch
Score.
1.16 Except as allowed in 1.11 1.12, and 1.14 above, a Handicap Committee is not
permitted to declare that a Qualifying Competition shall be for Reduction Only
(R/O).
2. The Single CSS Adjustment
The Single CSS Adjustment can be applied in both Club and Open competitions for situations
where the provisions of Appendix O (Players playing from different sets of tees) are applicable. It
is recommended when all players play a Qualifying Competition over a single course but more than
one set of tees are used, each set of tees having a SSS relevant to the gender of the players
playing from those tees. The procedure is set out below.
2.1 Use the total number of players in Categories 1 to 4 playing from the different sets of
tees to calculate the percentage composition of the field as for steps 1.1, 1.2 and 1.4 to
1.7 above.
2.2 Determine the number of players in Categories 1 to 4 who have played in the Buffer
Zone relative to the SSS of the tees from which they have played to as for step 1.3 above
and calculate boxes H and L as for step 1.8 above.
67
2.3 Perform steps 1.9 and 1.10 as above using the information calculated for the whole field
to determine the adjustment (-1, zero, +1, +2, +3, +3R/O). Apply this adjustment to the
SSS of each of the tees used in the competition. (See examples 4 and 5 following Tables
A and B below).
2.4 The provisions of Clauses 1.11 to 1.16 (and, if applicable Clauses 2.1 to 2.5 above) are
also applicable to the Single CSS Adjustment calculation.
3. ‘Open’ Competitions
In competitions in which there are players playing at a course at which they have playing rights
as a Member (‘Home’ players) and players who are Members elsewhere (i.e. ‘Visitors’) the
following conditions shall apply in the calculation of the Competition Scratch Score.
3.1 When the number of either Home players or Visitors is fewer than twenty in Categories
1, 2, 3 and 4 one CSS must be calculated for the entire field and all handicap
adjustments must be based on that CSS.
3.2 When the number of Home players and Visitors in Categories 1, 2, 3 and 4 are
each twenty or more a separate CSS must be calculated for both ‘Home’ players
and Visitors.
3.3 If the CSS calculated for Home players is higher than that calculated for the Visitors the
CSS calculation should default to a single CSS calculation as provided in Clause 1
above.
3.4 When a player is a Member of the club hosting the Open Competition or has playing
rights over the competition course but has nominated another club as his Home Club,
for the purposes of the CSS calculation he shall be regarded as a Home player.
3.5 The procedure for calculation of a CSS under this clause shall be in compliance with
sub-clauses 1.1 to 1.16 above.
Home advantage is recognised as an influencing factor in most forms of sporting contest. The
advantage, in the context of golf played under handicap conditions, was confirmed and quantified
during an extensive investigation into the possible value of introducing Slope Rating into the CONGU®
UHS. The investigation examined the comparative scoring performance of Home players and Visitors
in a wide range of Open competitions.
It was established that players competing at their home course enjoyed, on average, an advantage
over visiting players of between one and two strokes.
Furthermore, an additional analysis of Open competition returns revealed that when separate CSS
calculations were retrospectively carried out for ‘Home’ players as a group, and Visitors, the CSS for
the visiting players was frequently:
- higher than that calculated for the Home players; and
- higher than the original CSS calculated for the overall field.
Consequently by carrying out separate CSS calculations in the manner detailed in Clauses 2.1 to 2.5
above and applying the resultant Competition Scratch Scores to the Home player and Visitor returns,
for the purposes of handicapping, the imbalance is substantially reduced with more visiting players
returning nett scores to their Buffer Zone or better.
This feature of the UHS means that there is no valid reason for clubs to declare an Open competition
to be Non- Qualifying for fear that some players may be reluctant to enter because of a perceived
concern of a handicap increase each time they compete away from their Home Club.
The separate CSS calculations for Home players and Visitors in Open competitions is for handicap
purposes only and does not impact upon the results of the competition or allocation of prizes i.e. host
club members may benefit from ‘home advantage’ in terms of playing for the competition prizes.
68
APPENDIX B
TABLE A - COMPETITION SCRATCH SCORE TABLE
Handicap Categories Adjustments to SSS to Determine the CSS

1 2 3&4 +3 (R/O) +3 +2 +1 0 -1
0% 0% 100 % 0-6 % 7-9 % 10-15 % 16-22 % 23-45 % 46+ %
0% 10 % 90 % 0-6 % 7-9 % 10-15 % 16-22 % 23-45 % 46+ %
0% 20 % 80 % 0-6 % 7-9 % 10-15 % 16-22 % 23-45 % 46+ %
0% 30 % 70 % 0-6 % 7-10 % 11-16 % 17-23 % 24-47 % 48+ %

0% 40 % 60 % 0-6 % 7-10 % 11-16 % 17-23 % 24-47 % 48+ %
0% 50 % 50 % 0-6 % 7-10 % 11-16 % 17-23 % 24-47 % 48+ %
0% 60 % 40 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-17 % 18-25 % 26-49 % 50+ %

0% 70 % 30 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-17 % 18-25 % 26-49 % 50+ %
0% 80 % 20 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-17 % 18-25 % 26-49 % 50+ %
0% 90 % 10 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-17 % 18-25 % 26-49 % 50+ %

0% 100 % 0% 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %
10 % 0% 90 % 0-6 % 7-9 % 10-15 % 16-22 % 23-45 % 46+ %

10 % 10 % 80 % 0-6 % 7-10 % 11-16 % 17-23 % 24-47 % 48+ %
10 % 20 % 70 % 0-6 % 7-10 % 11-16 % 17-23 % 24-47 % 48+ %
10 % 30 % 60 % 0-6 % 7-10 % 11-16 % 17-23 % 24-47 % 48+ %

10 % 40 % 50 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-17 % 18-25 % 26-49 % 50+ %
10 % 50 % 40 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-17 % 18-25 % 26-49 % 50+ %
10 % 60 % 30 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-17 % 18-25 % 26-49 % 50+ %

10 % 70 % 20 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-17 % 18-25 % 26-49 % 50+ %
10 % 80 % 10 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %
10 % 90 % 0% 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %
20 % 0% 80 % 0-6 % 7-10 % 11-16 % 17-23 % 24-47 % 48+ %

20 % 10 % 70 % 0-6 % 7-10 % 11-16 % 17-23 % 24-47 % 48+ %
20 % 20 % 60 % 0-6 % 7-10 % 11-16 % 17-23 % 24-47 % 48+ %
20 % 30 % 50 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-17 % 18-25 % 26-49 % 50+ %

20 % 40 % 40 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-17 % 18-25 % 26-49 % 50+ %
20 % 50 % 30 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-17 % 18-25 % 26-49 % 50+ %
20 % 60 % 20 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %

20 % 70 % 10 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %
20 % 80 % 0% 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %
30 % 0% 70 % 0-6 % 7-10 % 11-16 % 17-23 % 24-47 % 48+ %

30 % 10 % 60 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-17 % 18-25 % 26-49 % 50+ %
30 % 20 % 50 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-17 % 18-25 % 26-49 % 50+ %
30 % 30 % 40 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-17 % 18-25 % 26-49 % 50+ %

30 % 40 % 30 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %
30 % 50 % 20 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %
30 % 60 % 10 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %

30 % 70 % 0% 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-28 % 29-55 % 56+ %
I J K Values of L (Percentages)
69
APPENDIX B
TABLE A - COMPETITION SCRATCH SCORE TABLE
Handicap Categories Adjustments to SSS to Determine the CSS

1 2 3&4 +3 (R/O) +3 +2 +1 0 -1
40 % 0% 60 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-17 % 18-25 % 26-49 % 50+ %
40 % 10 % 50 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-17 % 18-25 % 26-49 % 50+ %
40 % 20 % 40 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %
40 % 30 % 30 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %

40 % 40 % 20 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %
40 % 50 % 10 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %
40 % 60 % 0% 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-28 % 29-55 % 56+ %
50 % 0% 50 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %

50 % 10 % 40 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %
50 % 20 % 30 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %
50 % 30 % 20 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %

50 % 40 % 10 % 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-28 % 29-55 % 56+ %
50 % 50 % 0% 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-28 % 29-55 % 56+ %
60 % 0% 40 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %

60 % 10 % 30 % 0-6 % 7-11 % 12-18 % 19-26 % 27-51 % 52+ %
60 % 20 % 20 % 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-28 % 29-55 % 56+ %
60 % 30 % 10 % 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-28 % 29-55 % 56+ %

60 % 40 % 0% 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-28 % 29-55 % 56+ %
70 % 0% 30 % 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-28 % 29-55 % 56+ %

70 % 10 % 20 % 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-28 % 29-55 % 56+ %
70 % 20 % 10 % 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-28 % 29-55 % 56+ %
70 % 30 % 0% 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-29 % 30-57 % 58+ %
80 % 0% 20 % 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-28 % 29-55 % 56+ %

80 % 10 % 10 % 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-28 % 29-55 % 56+ %
80 % 20 % 0% 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-29 % 30-57 % 58+ %
90 % 0% 10 % 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-29 % 30-57 % 58+ %

90 % 10 % 0% 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-29 % 30-57 % 58+ %
100 % 0% 0% 0-7 % 8-12 % 13-19 % 20-29 % 30-57 % 58+ %

I J K Values of L (Percentages)
TABLE B - SMALL FIELD COMPETITION SCRATCH SCORE TABLE
Lowest Nett Score Relative to

Field Size
Handicap Category Buffer Zone
+4 or more +3 +2 +1
R/O SSS + 3 SSS + 2 SSS + 1 1
R/O SSS + 3 SSS + 2 SSS + 1 2
R/O SSS + 3 SSS + 2 SSS + 1 3
R/O SSS + 3 SSS + 2 SSS + 1 4
R/O R/O SSS + 3 SSS + 2 5
R/O R/O SSS + 3 SSS + 2 6
R/O R/O R/O SSS + 3 7
70
Examples of Competition Scratch Score (CSS) Calculations:
Example 1:
A Ladies’ competition had an entry of 35 players, as follows:
Category 1 Category 2 Category 3 Category 4 Category 5

1 2 7 20 5
Five players returned nett scores equal to their Category Buffer Zone, or better.
and ‘DQ’s’)
Category 1 A=1 A x 100 ÷ D F=3.3% F to nearest 10% I=0%
Category 2 B=2 B x 100 ÷ D G=6.6% G to nearest 10% J=10%
Categories 3 & 4 C=27 100 minus boxes I & J K=90%
Total D=30 Total 100%

in Category Buffer Zone Box H to nearest
and better E=5 E x 100 ÷ D H=16.7% L=17%
whole number
Referring to the row in Table A corresponding to the field composition of 0%/10%/90%, where 17% of
the field returned nett scores within their Category Buffer Zones i.e. in the range 16-22%, gives a
Competition Scratch Score of SSS+1.
Example 2:
A Men’s competition had an entry of 80 players, as follows:
Category 1 Category 2 Category 3 Category 4

9 32 34 5
Twenty-three players returned nett scores equal to their Category Buffer Zone, or better.
and ‘DQ’s’)
Category 1 A=9 A x 100 ÷ D F=11.3% F to nearest 10% I=10%

and better E=23 E x 100 ÷ D H=28.8% L=29%
whole number
Referring to the row in Table A corresponding to the field composition of 10%/40%/50%, where 29% of
the field returned nett scores within their Category Buffer Zones i.e. in the range 26-49%, gives a
Competition Scratch Score equal to the SSS.
71
Example 3:
A Ladies’ competition had an entry of ten players, of which seven were in Handicap Categories 1 to 4.
No player returned a nett score equal to her Buffer Zone, or better. Two players returned nett scores
that were one stroke outside their respective Category Buffer Zones.
Category 1 Category 2 Category 3 Category 4 Category 5

1 1 5 0 3
including ‘No Returns’ Percentages Rounded %
and ‘DQ’s’
Category 1 A=1 A x 100 ÷ D F=14,3% F to nearest 10% I=10%

and better E=0 E x 100 ÷ D H=0% L=0%
whole number
Referring to the row in Table A, corresponding to the field composition of 10%/10%/80%, where 0% of
the field returned a nett score within her Category Buffer Zone i.e. in the range 0-6%, gives a
Competition Scratch Score of SSS+3 R/O.
As the size of this field in Handicap Categories 1 to 4 was less than 10, and the CSS calculation
resulted in a Competition Scratch Score equal to SSS+3R/O. Reference must now be made to Table
B.
The relevant row in Table B is that for the field size of 7 players, where the lowest score of +1 outside
the relevant Category Buffer Zones indicates a Competition Scratch Score of SSS+3.
Example 4
In a club junior competition the boys played from a set of tees with a men’s SSS of 70 and the girls
played from a set of tees with a women’s SSS of 72. The distribution of entrants and number of players
in their respective Buffer Zones was as follows:
No. of Boys No. in BZ No. of Girls No. in BZ Total Total in BZ

Category 2 1 1 - - 1 1
Category 3 3 1 1 0 4 1
Category 4 4 0 1 0 5 0
Category 5 - - 2 1 2 1
Total 8 2 4 1 12 3
Total in CSS 8 2 2 0 10 2
calculation
If separate CSS calculations are made then 2 out of 8 boys i.e. 25% are in their Buffer Zone. Using
Table A and the row for 0% Category 1, 10% Category 2 and 90% Category 3 and 4 the CSS = SSS.
The girls’ CSS, on the other hand, initially would calculate as Reduction Only but the Category 3 girl
was 3 strokes outside her Buffer Zone and the Category 4 girl was 5 strokes outside hers. From
Table B with 2 players in the field and the better performing player being 3 strokes outside her Buffer
Zone the CSS = SSS+3.
72
By combining the fields to use the Single CSS Adjustment there would now be 2 players out of 10 in
their respective Buffer Zones i.e. 20%. The row in Table A is the same as before but the CSS = SSS
+1. This adjustment would be applied to the respective SSS’s of the tees used so that the boys’ CSS
would be 71 and the girls’ CSS would be 73.
Example 5
In a men’s open competition the committee directed that players in Categories 1 to 3 would play from
the traditional medal tees (SSS = 72) but that the Category 4 players would play from the forward
tees (SSS = 69) because of a difficult carry over a ravine from two of the medal tees. The distribution
of entrants and players within their buffer zones was as follows:
No. of No. of No. of No. of Total Total

Home Home Visitors Visitors in Players Players in
Players Players in BZ BZ
BZ
Category 1 1 1 8 2 9 3
Category 2 5 2 22 2 27 4
Category 3 9 4 30 3 39 7
Total (Medal 15 7 60 7 75 14
tees)
Category 4 11 2 30 1 41 3
(forward tees)
Total in CSS 26 9 90 8 116 15
calculation
If separate CSS calculations were performed for the medal tees and the forward tees then there were
insufficient Home players for separate Home and Visitor CSS calculations although it is clear from the
results from both sets of tees that the Home players performed better in proportion to their numbers
than did the Visitors. 14 players out of 75 (18.6%) who played from the medal tees buffered thus
giving an adjustment of +1 so the CSS for the medal tees would have been 73. Only 3 players from
41 (7.3%) who played from the forward tees buffered resulting in an adjustment of +3, i.e. a CSS of
72.
If the Single CSS Adjustment were used then with a total of 27 Home players separate calculations
would have been carried out for the Home players and for the Visitors. Of the 26 Home players 9
(34.6%) buffered so the CSS = SSS and neither SSS would have been adjusted. For the 90 Visitors,
however, only 8 (8.9%) buffered resulting in an adjustment of +3 to both sets of tees, i.e. the CSS
from the medal tees would have been 72 for Home players and 75 for Visitors whilst the CSS from
the forward tees would have been 69 for the Home players and 72 for the Visitors.
73
APPENDIX C
STABLEFORD / NETT DOUBLE BOGEY ADJUSTMENT
1. The purpose of applying a Stableford point calculation under Clause 19 handicap reductions is to
reduce the impact of an extremely bad score(s) on a hole(s) in Stroke Play Qualifying Competitions
that are not truly representative of a player’s golfing ability.
2. If a player applies the course stroke index relevant to his handicap and scores a nett Par on each
hole in a Stableford Qualifying Competition he will have a score equal to the Par of the course. If
the Par is less than the Standard Scratch Score he will have recorded a nett score below his
handicap by the difference between Par and the Standard Scratch Score. If Par is more than the
Standard Scratch Score the reverse applies. It is by applying this principle that point scores in a
Stableford Qualifying Competition are converted into Nett Differentials.
3. Any hole in a Stableford Qualifying Competition upon which a player records no score and
accordingly is not awarded any points indicates that the player would, if the hole had been
completed, have scored not less than a Nett Double Bogey.
For example, on a Par 4 hole a player who scores no Stableford points would, if he had completed
the hole, have taken 6 or more strokes if the index did not provide a stroke on that hole, 7 strokes
or more if he had received a stroke or 8 strokes or more if he had received two strokes.
4. By applying these principles it is possible to convert a stroke play score into the Nett Differential
which would have applied if the same scores had been recorded in a Stableford competition
without calculating the points on each hole. Further it is not necessary to make an adjustment
when the Par and Standard Scratch Score are not the same. It is also possible to calculate a Nett
Differential in a stroke play event when one or more holes have not been completed.
These adjustments are achieved as follows:
(a) All holes completed

The player's Nett Differential is reduced by the number of strokes he has scored on any hole in
excess of Nett Double Bogey. Except for plus handicap players, only scores of 6 or more can be
reduced on par 3 holes, 7 or more on Par 4s and 8 or more on Par 5s. For plus handicap players,
on the holes where they give shots back to the course, only scores of 5 or more can be reduced
on Par 3 holes, 6 or more on par 4s and 7 or more on par 5s. An examination of the scores on the
par 3 holes will usually identify no adjustment on those holes and thereafter only scores of 7 or
more require examination (8 or more if the player's handicap is more than 18). If a reduction is
appropriate the Adjusted Gross Score is entered in column 14 of the Player Handicap Record of
Appendix I and other numbers appropriately adjusted.
(b) Holes with no score recorded

The assessment is made as in (a) above by reducing all scores to Nett Double Bogey. A gross
score that would result in a Nett Double Bogey is entered at holes where no score is recorded. The
scores are totalled and the player's handicap applied. Scores are then entered in the Player
Handicap Record of Appendix I commencing at column 14.
5. Clubs are reminded that Stableford adjustments under Clause 19 are made for handicap adjustment
and record purposes only.
74
APPENDIX D
TABLE FOR CONVERTING PAR/BOGEY AND STABLEFORD SCORES

TO NETT DIFFERENTIALS
(Note - the Table is based on full playing handicap allowance)
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 All 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Scores versus PAR down down down down down down down Square up up up up up up up
STABLEFORD
Points scored 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43
Par 7 less than CSS 0 -1 -2 -3 -4 -5 -6 -7 -8 -9 -10 -11 -12 -13 -14

Par 6 less than CSS +1 0 -1 -2 -3 -4 -5 -6 -7 -8 -9 -10 -11 -12 -13
Par 5 less than CSS +2 +1 0 -1 -2 -3 -4 -5 -6 -7 -8 -9 -10 -11 -12
Par 4 less than CSS +3 +2 +1 0 -1 -2 -3 -4 -5 -6 -7 -8 -9 -10 -11
Par 3 less than CSS +4 +3 +2 +1 0 -1 -2 -3 -4 -5 -6 -7 -8 -9 -10
Par 2 less than CSS +5 +4 +3 +2 +1 0 -1 -2 -3 -4 -5 -6 -7 -8 -9
Par 1 less than CSS +6 +5 +4 +3 +2 +1 0 -1 -2 -3 -4 -5 -6 -7 -8
Par Equal to CSS +7 +6 +5 +4 +3 +2 +1 0 -1 -2 -3 -4 -5 -6 -7
Par 1 more than CSS +8 +7 +6 +5 +4 +3 +2 +1 0 -1 -2 -3 -4 -5 -6
Par 2 more than CSS +9 +8 +7 +6 +5 +4 +3 +2 +1 0 -1 -2 -3 -4 -5
Par 3 more than CSS +10 +9 +8 +7 +6 +5 +4 +3 +2 +1 0 -1 -2 -3 -4
Par 4 more than CSS +11 +10 +9 +8 +7 +6 +5 +4 +3 +2 +1 0 -1 -2 -3
Par 5 more than CSS +12 +11 +10 +9 +8 +7 +6 +5 +4 +3 +2 +1 0 -1 -2
Par 6 more than CSS +13 +12 +11 +10 +9 +8 +7 +6 +5 +4 +3 +2 +1 0 -1
EXAMPLES
(a) 3 up on a Par 72 course with a CSS of 70. Par is 2 more than CSS so Nett Differential = -1. Exact Handicap
reduction depends upon Handicap Category .
(b) 37 Stableford points on a course with Par 68 and CSS 69. Par is 1 less than CSS so Nett Differential = -2. Exact
Handicap reduction depends upon Handicap Category .
(c) 3 down or 33 Stableford points on a course with Par and CSS of 72. Nett differential is +3 and is within Buffer
Zone of Categories 3, 4 [and 5]. Exact Handicaps in Categories 1 and 2 will be increased by 0.1.
75
APPENDIX E
TABLE OF HANDICAP ADJUSTMENTS
76
APPENDIX F
HANDICAP ALLOWANCES FOR DIFFERENT FORMATS OF COMPETITION
Affiliated Clubs must use the following handicap allowances for the undernoted forms of competition
when played as handicap events and, where relevant, for the calculation of the Competition Scratch
Score in scratch competitions. The reference to handicaps in all cases refers to Playing Handicaps.
Strokes must be taken according to the Handicap Stroke Index.
Match Play Singles Full difference between the handicaps of the players
Foursomes 1/2 difference between combined handicaps of each side
Four-ball Back marker to concede strokes to the other 3 players
(better ball) based on 90% of the difference between the full handicaps
Stroke Play Singles Full handicap

Foursomes 1/2 combined handicap of partners
Four-ball Each partner receives 90% of full handicap
(better ball)
Par/Bogey Singles Full handicap

(better ball)
Stableford Singles Full handicap

(better ball)
Note 1: Half Strokes. Half strokes or over to be counted as one; smaller fractions to be disregarded
except in Foursomes Stroke Play when 1/2 strokes are counted as such.
Note 2: Handicap Allowances. In a handicap competition played in any of the above formats the
allowances must be laid down by the Committee in the Terms of Competition (15-I(4) of
Committee Procedures) in accordance with the above direction.
Note 3: 36 Holes. In handicap competitions over 36 holes strokes should be given or taken on the
basis of two 18 hole rounds in accordance with the 18 hole Handicap Stroke Index unless the
Committee introduces a special Stroke Index.
Note 4: Hole-by-hole play-off (sudden-death). When extra holes are played in handicap
competitions, strokes should be taken in accordance with the Handicap Stroke Index.
Note 5. Decisions on ties. For guidance as to how decide ties see Appendix N (page 87).
Other Forms of Play

CONGU® recommends the following allowances:
Greensomes Stroke Play - Lower handicap x 0.6 plus higher handicap x 0.4 (based on Playing
Handicaps)
Notes:
• To facilitate the calculation of the Greensomes Handicap Allowance a Table is
provided below.
• Match Play – Full Difference between Greensomes Handicaps
• Competitions where players play from different Tees
• When applying the allowances above in these competitions, handicap adjustments (see
Appendix O) should be made before applying the allowance for the type of competition
77
Decisions relevant to Appendix F

• 6(a) Plus handicaps – strokes conceded when other than full handicap allowance applied .
• 6(b) Handicap Adjustments made for competitions where competitors play from different
tees and when there are also handicap allowances to be applied for the type of competition.
GREENSOMES HANDICAP ALLOWANCE TABLE
78
APPENDIX F (Cont.)
GREENSOMES HANDICAP ALLOWANCE TABLE (Cont.)
79
APPENDIX F (Cont.)
GREENSOMES HANDICAP ALLOWANCE TABLE (Cont.)
80
APPENDIX G
HANDICAP STROKE INDEX
Committee Procedures 5-I(4) requires Committees to ’publish a table indicating the order of holes at
which handicap strokes are to be given or received’. To provide consistency at Affiliated Clubs it is
recommended that the allocation is made based on the following principles.
1. Of paramount importance for match play competition is the even spread of the strokes to be
received at all handicap differences over the 18 holes.
2. This is best achieved by allocating the odd numbered strokes to the more difficult of the two
nines, usually the longer nine, and the even numbers to the other nine.
3. The first and second stroke index holes should be placed close to the centre of each nine and
the first six strokes should not be allocated to adjacent holes. The 7 th to the 10th indices should
be allocated so that a player receiving 10 strokes does not receive strokes on three consecutive
holes.
4. None of the first eight strokes should be allocated to the first or the last hole, and at clubs where
competitive matches may be started at the 10 th hole, at the 9th or 10th holes. This avoids a
player receiving an undue advantage on the 19 th hole should a match continue to sudden death.
Unless there are compelling reasons to the contrary, stroke indices 9, 10, 11 and 12 should be
allocated to holes 1, 9, 10 and 18 in such order as shall be considered appropriate.
5. Subject to the foregoing recommendations, when selecting each stroke index in turn holes of
varying length should be selected. Index 1 could be a par 5, index 2 a long par 4, index 3 a
shorter par 4 and index 4 a par 3. There is no recommended order for this selection, the
objective being to select in index sequence holes of varying playing difficulty. Such a selection
provides more equal opportunity for all handicaps in match play and Stableford and Par
competitions than an order based upon hole length or difficulty to obtain par.
Note 1: Par is not an indicator of hole difficulty. Long par 3 and 4 holes are often selected for low index
allocation in preference to par 5 holes on the basis that it is easier to score par on a par 5 hole
than 4 on a long par 4. Long par 3 and 4 holes are difficult pars for low handicap players but
often relatively easy bogeys for the player with a slightly higher handicap. Difficulty in relation
to par is only one of several factors to be taken into account when selecting stroke indices.
Note 2: When allocating a stroke index it should be noted that in the majority of social matches there
are small handicap differences thereby making the even distribution of the lower indices of
great importance.
The above recommendations for the ‘Handicap Stroke Index’ provision are principally directed at match
play and have proved to be suitable for that purpose. The ‘Handicap Stroke Index’, however, is also
used widely for Stableford, par and bogey competitions. In these forms of stroke play competition the
need to have a uniform and balanced distribution of strokes is less compelling. There is a cogent case
for the Index in such competitions to be aligned to the ranking of holes in terms of playing difficulty
irrespective of hole number. Such a ranking facility is available through many of the licensed handicap
software programs currently used by Affiliated Clubs.
Clubs that conduct a significant number of Stableford, par and bogey competitions may wish to provide
separate stroke indices for match play and the listed forms of stroke play. To avoid confusion this would
be best done on separate scorecards.
These recommendations supplement those made by the R&A Rules Ltd contained in Committee
Procedures - which may be downloaded from the R&A website www.randa.org.
81
APPENDIX H
COMPUTER SOFTWARE RELATING TO THE

CONGU® UNIFIED HANDICAPPING SYSTEM
Possession of a CONGU® Licence demonstrates that the Independent Software Vendor is satisfied, to
the best of the Vendor’s knowledge and belief that the Handicapping database of the software complies
with the CONGU® Specification for Handicapping Software 2016.
As a minimum the Specification requires that any licensed software must have the capability to:
1. Record and process all scores returned by players from competitions played at the Home Club, or
elsewhere, in accordance with all the requirements of the UHS. The record must also include the
reason for any disqualification.
2. Calculate the Competition Scratch Score following each Qualifying Competition held at the club.
3. Calculate Exact and Playing Handicaps in accordance with the Regulations by applying scores in
chronological order.
4. Provide a facility for altering an Exact and Playing Handicap following an adjustment under Review
of Handicaps - Clause 23.
5. Print the following when required, using the relevant specified format:
(a) Handicap Record Sheets containing such information as is required.
(b) CONGU® Handicap Certificates.
(c) A list of changes to Members’ Playing Handicaps immediately they are made.
(d) A list of all current Playing Handicaps together with current Exact Handicaps.
(e) A summary of scores showing not less than the information contained in Appendix I,
Specimen Player Handicap Record.
(f) Provide a list of Members who have not returned the stipulated minimum number of
Qualifying Scores between Annual Reviews or during the previous calendar year and
indicate, where appropriate, the status of those handicaps in accordance with Clause 25.1.
(g) The Annual Review Report.
The software, as covered by the Licence, must not include any guidance or option contrary to the
requirements of the UHS that can modify any files in the CONGU® handicap maintenance database.
For example the software must NOT:
• provide any facilities for the manual override of a calculated CSS.
• offer options that do not ensure Clause 19 reductions are applied to competitions.
• provide any formula for handicap adjustments other than as provided in Clauses 19 and
23 and in Appendix J.
• make any provision that allows clubs to obtain reductions of handicap without handicap
increases (other than when so required by Clause 18).
• permit any entry of scores other than in chronological order of event date.
• allow the date of score entry to be modified from the actual date of entry.
Note: Any options other than those specifically required by the UHS, must not be capable of affecting
the CONGU® Handicap Database. Such options are not regulated by the Licence. Where such
options are connected with player scoring (or competition analysis) any output must disclaim
any connection with the UHS.
82
APPENDIX I
SPECIMEN PLAYER HANDICAP RECORD
83
APPENDIX I (Cont.)
PLAYER HANDICAP INFORMATION
Explanatory Notes to the Specimen Player Handicap Record
1. All the information contained in the Specimen Player Handicap Record must be stored for each
player either in computerised records using licensed software in accordance with Appendix I or in
manual handicap record sheets.
2. The provisions of Clause 19 have been applied to the scores shown in the Specimen Player
Handicap Record. Manual entries in respect of Stroke Play scores which are reduced by Stableford
point calculation are made as follows:
(a) The reduced Nett Differential is entered in column 18.
(b) The Gross Differential calculated by adding the reduced Nett Differential to the Playing
Handicap from which the player competed is entered in column 17.
(c) The number of strokes by which the Nett Differential has been reduced was entered in column
13 and the reduced gross score entered in column 14.
3. On 3 June the player returned his card without a score recorded on one of the holes. The Stableford
point calculation provided a point total which gave a Nett Differential of one stroke over Competition
Scratch Score. Despite the ‘No Return’, the player’s score was in his Buffer Zone and his Exact
Handicap remained unchanged.
4. Appendix C sets out a short alternative procedure and supplementary recommendations for
calculating Stableford point score reductions authorised by Clause 19.
5. When away scores are reported to a Home Club after a later Qualifying Competition has been
entered in the Player Handicap Record sheet the player’s Exact Handicap must be re-calculated
immediately to provide the Exact Handicap that would have applied if the scores had been entered
in chronological order.
On 4 September the player competed in an Open Meeting at CCC GC and reported the score to
his Home Club before the Competition Scratch Score was known. On 8 September the Competition
Scratch Score of 75 became known to the Home Club and the Exact Handicap was recalculated
from the scores returned on 4, 5 and 6 September. Although the player had correctly played from
16 on 5 September and 15 on 6 September, the revised Playing Handicaps of 15 and 14 are used
for the re-calculation.
The calculation of the Competition Scratch Score on 4 September had resulted in the competition
being for Reduction Only and the identifier ’RMO’ has been entered in column 9.
6. In a 36 hole competition the Terms of Competition may require the player to compete from the same
handicap in each round. However, for handicap purposes, if the score in the first round results in a
revised Playing Handicap this is used to determine any adjustments to be made to the player’s
Exact Handicap following the second round.
7. It will be noted in the Specimen Player Handicap Record that the player failed to report an away
score on 9 July until 7 August. The omission resulted in the player playing in three competitions at
his Home Club from a handicap of 20 instead of 18. In the absence of a satisfactory explanation,
the Home Club should consider suspending the player’s handicap under Clause 24.1.
8. The Summary of Scores Table will be generated from the player’s information held in his Player
Handicap Record (as per the Specimen Player Handicap Record).
84
APPENDIX I (Cont.)
CODES USED IN THE HANDICAP RECORD
When a computerised handicap record is used, as set out in the specimen handicap record above,
Column 9 ‘Ident’ shall contain a three-character code to identify the type of score or adjustment.
1. The codes for the different types of scores must conform to the rules set out below. The first
character in the code denotes the type of competition, the second character the format of the round
and the third character nature of the course over which the round has been played. It should be
noted that not all of the codes identified in the table below are currently required to be recorded in
a player’s record
1st Character 2nd Character 3rd Character

Code Competition Type Code Format of Play Code Course
F Foursomes, Greensomes K Match play – Knockout A Away Club
H For Handicap (re- M Stroke play – Medal D Abandoned
instatement of status)
N Non-Qualifying N Nine-hole stroke play F Overseas (Foreign)
Q Qualifying P Par/Bogey H Home club
R Reduction Only S Stableford O Open event
S Supplementary Score 9 Nine-hole Stableford
T Team format (e.g. Tri-Am)
Y Society
4 Four-Ball Better Ball
2. The three-character codes for an initial handicap allotment are:
Code Description x values

IHA Initial Handicap Allotted
IHx Initial Handicap score x= 1,2,3
I9x Initial Handicap nine-hole score x= 1,2,3,4,5,6
3. The three-character codes for adjustments are:
Code Description Code Description

ARI Annual Review Increase GPI General Play Increase
ARR Annual Review Reduction GPR General Play Reduction
CHL Competition Handicap Lost HBF Handicap Brought Forward
CHR Competition Handicap Restored PHR Player Handicap Restored
COR Correction PHS Player Handicap Suspended
CRI Continuous Review Increase THA Transferred Handicap Allotment
ESR Exceptional Scoring Reduction
4. The following codes have been retired:
Code Description Code Description

ARA Annual Review Adjustment LHR Lapsed Handicap Restored
ARO Abandoned Reduction Only MUR Monthly Up Revision
ARP Annual Review Process PHL Playing Handicap Lapsed
COS Corrected Overseas Score QRO Qualifying Reduction Only
GPA General Play Adjustment REV Revision
If Column 10 ‘Gross Score’ does not contain a number the following two letter codes are applicable:
Code Description
NA Not Applicable
NC No Card Returned
NR No Return
85
APPENDIX I (Cont.)
PLAYER HANDICAP INFORMATION
SUMMARY OF SCORES TABLE
Date: ___________________
Golf Club: ___________________ Home Club of the following players:
Qualifying Competitions Ten best Gross Differentials

Exact returned during preceding 12
months
H’cap
Exact
12
H’cap
Player
Months
Today
Ago Nett Differentials
Played Scores SS 9HS NR’s R’s <BZ =0 =BZ >BZ Qualifying Competitions
Other AN 21.0 14.5 22 21 1 1 1 1 5 0 4 11 12 13 14 15 16 18 19 19 19 20

Smith J 25.8 26.0 2 2 1 2 32 33
Weekender A 14.2 14.7 5 5 5 19 19 20 20 20
Youngster A 25.4 17.2 20 20 2 5 3 12 14 15 16 21 22 22 24 24 25 25
Notes:
R’s denote Qualifying Competitions determined by Clause 18.4 to be for Reduction Only
Nett Differentials:
< BZ below Buffer Zone

=0 Nett Differential equal to Playing Handicap
= BZ Nett Differential within Buffer Zone but above Playing Handicap
> BZ above Buffer Zone
86
APPENDIX J
Removed
87
APPENDIX K
Removed
88
APPENDIX L
UHS COMPLIANCE CHECKLIST
To ensure that all Affiliated Clubs are consistent in their interpretation and application of the UHS,
each club should conduct a self-audit, on an annual basis, using the compliance checklist detailed
below.
Does the Club:
Compliance Requirement Clause Yes/No
Display the Terms of Competition in a prominent position 6
Appoint a Handicap Committee as required in the ‘Responsibilities of the Affiliated
6.3
Club’?
Issue handicap certificates with the CONGU® Handicap mark? 6.4
Calculate and maintain handicaps strictly in accordance with UHS requirements? 6.4
Where a computerised system is in place, use a licensed software supplier for
6.5
maintenance of handicaps (with latest version update)?
Have a current Certificate of Course Measurement for all tees from which Qualifying
6.6
Competitions are played?
Know of its responsibility to notify the Union, or Area Authority if so delegated, when
permanent changes have been made to the course, particularly increases and 6.7
decreases in playing length?
Ensure that all Qualifying Competitions are played from a Measured Course as
6.8
defined and inform green staff of this requirement?
Have a mechanism by which a competitor must signify his intention of playing before
7.2
commencing play on the day of a competition?
Ensure all Qualifying Scores are uploaded to the Union CDH 7.4
Display a list of current handicaps in a prominent position? 7.6
Conduct an Annual Review of the handicaps of all Members with consideration
7.7(i)
given to increases and reductions alike?
Have a book or equivalent recording system to allow Members to return details of
7.7(j)
Away scores?
Display a notice or otherwise advise (and remind) Members of their responsibilities
8
to the UHS?
Accept that adjusting the Terms of Competition e.g. Open singles, to make it Non-
Qualifying on a technicality is an abuse of the spirit and intent of the UHS that may 17
result in the Union imposing sanctions under Clause 6.2.
Play all Stableford / par / bogey competitions with full handicap allowance for
17.2
handicap purposes?
Accept that it is not permissible to declare in advance that a competition is for
Definition
Reduction Only.
Accept that it is not permissible to adjust handicaps either upwards or downwards
17.3
at the conclusion of a Non-Qualifying Competition Except in Ireland
Increase and decrease handicaps as soon as practicable after the conclusion of a
20.9
Qualifying Competition?
Accept for handicapping purposes Supplementary Scores in accordance with Union
21
requirements?
Have a defined procedure for Members to signify, in advance, their intention to
21.6
return a Supplementary Score and provision for the return of cards?
Have a recognised procedure to advise Members of handicap alterations following
23
Annual Review, General Play Adjustment, ESR and CRI?
Apply the Handicap Allowances as contained in Appendix F? Appendix F
If the answer to all questions is ‘Yes’, the golf club is complying with the requirements of the UHS.
If any of the answers are ‘No’, the club should take appropriate action to achieve compliance. The
Union or delegated authority should be contacted if a club has difficulty in complying with the above
requirements.
89
APPENDIX M
GUIDELINES FOR ANNUAL REVIEW / GENERAL PLAY ADJUSTMENT.
Affiliated Clubs are required to carry out an Annual Review of the handicaps of all Members in
compliance with the requirements of Clause 23. It is considered essential that this review is conducted
by the Handicap Committee rather than by one individual. The results of all relevant competitions that
took place in the calendar year should be available at the Review meeting.
The purpose of the Annual Review is to identify:
• those players whose general playing performance and scoring pattern over the year is better
than that expected for their Handicap Category and who should be considered for a reduction of
handicap; and
• those players whose general playing performance and scoring pattern over the year is inferior
to that expected for their Handicap Category and who should be considered for an increase of
handicap.
It should be noted that the majority of Members, particularly those who have returned a reasonable
number of Qualifying Scores through the year, will probably have had appropriate handicap alterations
applied by the system and do not require further adjustment under Clause 23.
To ensure uniformity in club handicapping, it is important that the Handicap Committee conducts the
Annual Review in a structured manner. It is recognised, however, that it is an extremely difficult and
time consuming task for the Handicap Committee to carry out a detailed and effective review of the
handicaps of all Members in the required manner, particularly in clubs with a large playing membership.
Consequently, a computer generated report has been designed to assist Handicap Committees in the
Annual Review and the report is part of the handicap software package.
The report ‘flags up’ those players whose playing performance over the year is outside the expected
scoring pattern for their Handicap Category and who should be the subject of further consideration for
an increase or decrease in handicap, as appropriate. It must be emphasised, however, that the list
produced must not be taken as an automatic authority to adjust the handicaps of the listed players, or
as indicative of the only players requiring review.
When carrying out the Annual Review and in giving consideration to possible handicap adjustments
arising from the computer generated listing, the Handicap Committee must:
• take account of the player’s achievements in Non-Qualifying Competitions, match play
competitions, four-ball better ball competitions and other forms of team event in addition to medal
play performance;
• examine the frequency of Qualifying Scores recently returned by the player to and below his
Playing Handicap;
• possibly deal more severely with a player, whose general standard of play is known to be
improving, than it would with a player who it is believed has returned scores below his general
ability but whose general ability is not considered to be improving;
• only adjust a handicap after all information available in regard to the playing ability of the player
has been considered. Decisions made on the basis of ‘knee-jerk’ reactions to a single
performance or good score are seldom justifiable;
• recognise that it is as important to identify players of declining ability who have handicaps that
are too low, as it is to identify players who have a handicap that is too high;
• ensure that the performance of any player who has been allotted a handicap since the last
Annual Review is carefully assessed to confirm that his handicap reflects current ability;
• not use General Play Adjustments as a ‘punishment’ (or ‘reward’) for success in either match or
stroke play competitions (unless other evidence exists to support an adjustment); and
• not apply a formula to make adjustments e.g. the winners of club match play events being the
subject of a handicap reduction of two strokes.
• In Ireland, the frequency of Non-Qualifying Scores, achieved in competitions played over a
course for which the Union has allotted a Standard Scratch Score, to and below his Playing
Handicap must also be examined.
90
APPENDIX N
RESOLUTION OF TIES
Committee Procedures 5-A(6) empowers the Committee to determine the method for deciding the
result of ties in both stroke play and match play.
The most practicable way to decide ties in club and open handicap stroke play competitions is a card
count-back with the winner determined on the basis of the better inward half, last six holes, last three
holes etc. Committee Procedures 5-A(6) define this method. In handicap stroke play competitions
the fractions of the applicable handicaps are deducted from the gross scores for the applicable holes.
In this context CONGU® directs that the exact fractions i.e. one-half, one-third, one-sixth etc. or
commonly accepted decimal equivalents are deducted. The fractional or decimal allowances should
not be rounded to a whole number.
91
APPENDIX O
EVENTS IN WHICH COMPETITORS PLAY FROM DIFFERENT SETS OF TEES
Note that this Appendix does not apply to 9-Hole Competitions where different sets of tees are in use.
The 9-Hole Handicap Allowance effectively makes the target for all players 36 points regardless of the
Tee used, hence no further adjustment is required.
The majority of Qualifying Competitions are run for a specific group of competitors, .e.g. a men’s medal,
a ladies’ Stableford, a seniors’ par/bogey competition from a given set of tees. Increasingly, however,
clubs are introducing competitions that cater for a wider group of entrants such as in mixed gender
competitions and/or competitions in which different sets of tees are used to enable players of different
age/ playing ability to compete together. Each set of tees used must have been rated for the genders
that will play from them. Whilst the majority of clubs have at least two sets of tees for men i.e. traditional
medal tees and forward tees, many clubs only have one set of tees that have been rated for women.
A few clubs, particularly those having relatively long and/or difficult courses, have created an additional
set of tees forward from the existing ladies’ tees and have these tees rated for the women and
sometimes for the men as well. Having such options enables clubs to give all players the opportunity
to compete from tees that are the most suitable for their ability. Examples of such competitions include:
• junior competitions in which both boys and girls compete with the boys playing from a set of
tees having a men’s rating and the girls competing from a set of tees having a women’s rating;
• open competitions open to men, women and juniors;
• single gender competitions in which some players are required to, or may elect to, play from
different sets of tees e.g. a men’s medal in which players have the choice of playing from the
traditional medal tees or from the forward tees (both sets of tees being rated courses).or a
ladies’ Stableford with silver division playing from the traditional ladies’ medal tees and bronze
division playing from the forward ladies’ tees.
In virtually all cases, the different sets of tees will have been allocated different Standard Scratch Scores
by the Unions. Two issues arise; the first is how to determine the competition winner and the second is
how to adjust handicaps in an equitable manner.
A. Determining the Prize-winners - Competition Handicap Allowances for Qualifying

Competitions
In order to maintain equity in determining the prize winners in these competitions the Playing Handicaps
of some of the competitors may require to be adjusted to provide a Competition Handicap Allowance.
In Qualifying Competitions any adjustment to generate the Competition Handicap Allowance must be
applied for competition result purposes only, so that the competition retains its qualifying status. The
adjusted Competition Handicap Allowance must not be used to establish the Competition Scratch Score
or for the purpose of handicap alteration. Competitions in which competitors play from different tees in
Qualifying Competitions may be in three formats – medal stroke play, Stableford and par/bogey.
Mixed Tee Scratch Result

As with a handicap competition, a similar situation arises when determining the outcome of a mixed tee
scratch result. As an example consider the situation where Ladies play from the Red Tee which has a
SSS of 75 and Men play from the White Tee which has a SSS of 73. If both play to a score which
represents the relative difficulty of each course (i.e. the SSS) then the Man would score 73 and the
Lady would score 75. From a Scratch Result point of view, the Man would always win. Accordingly an
adjustment equal to the difference between the two SSS’s needs to be applied to the scores of those
playing from the tee with the higher SSS. In order that features such as Card Count Backs are
accommodated, the difference should be applied in the same way as a handicap. Effectively those
playing from the tee with the lowest SSS would play off zero and those on the higher value SSS tee
would play off the difference between the two SSSs. That ‘handicap’ would then be used for Card
Count Back etc.
1. Medal Stroke Play
This is the format most easily understood by the competitors and the simplest to administer.
92
For the purposes of the competition, each player playing the course with the higher Standard Scratch
Score must be awarded a Competition Handicap Allowance equivalent to his Playing Handicap
increased by the difference in the two Standard Scratch Scores.
Examples:
Men’s Course (White Tees): SSS 70 Ladies’ Course (Red Tees): SSS 72
SSSLadies – SSSMen = 2. All Ladies’ handicaps should be increased by 2 strokes
Competition Handicap
Playing Handicap for
Lady Exact Handicap Allowance for Competition
Handicap purposes
purposes
18.8 19 (19 + 2) = 21
35.5 36 (36 + 2) = 38
In a scratch event the Ladies would effectively have 2 handicap strokes for competition purposes.
Any adjustment that results in a playing handicap above the maximum Exact Handicap allowed (54.0)
should be applied only for competition purposes. (i.e. the Competition Handicap Allowance is not used
for handicap purposes).
2. Stableford Competitions
In Stableford competitions it is the relationship between the Par and Standard Scratch Score and not
only the SSS that determines player scoring and the score that represents ’Playing to handicap‘. When
players play from different tees (e.g. Ladies’ / Men’s) the Par / SSS relationship may well be different
for each set of tees. For example:
• for Course A with Ladies’ tees of Par 72 and SSS 72 and Men’s tees of Par 70 and SSS 70,
the Par and SSS have the same relationship (Difference Par – SSS = 0);
• for Course B with Ladies’ tees Par 70 and SSS 70 (Par – SSS = 0) and Men’s tees Par 72 and
SSS 70 (Par – SSS = 2) the relationship between Par and SSS is different.
With Course A in a Stableford competition all players from either set of tees playing to their handicap
would return the same score (36 points). In this situation the scores from each set of tees can be
equitably combined for result purposes (despite the SSSs being different and an adjusted Competition
Handicap Allowance being required if the competition had been Medal stroke play).
With Course B, a woman playing to her handicap would return 36 points, whilst a man would return 38
points when playing to his. The women’s Competition Handicap Allowance must be increased by two.
In all such cases where the Par and SSS relationship is different, for result purposes only, the
Competition Handicap Allowances will differ dependent upon which set of tees the players play from.
The same principle would apply for a scratch competition played under the Stableford format in that
there would be a ‘handicap’ applied to account for the difference between the ‘play to handicap’ scores.
Players playing from the set of tees with the higher target to ‘play to handicap’ will receive the same
Competition Handicap Allowance as their Playing Handicap but others will receive additional stroke(s).
Extra stroke(s) equal to the difference between the respective ’Playing to Handicap‘ scores from each
set of tees (i.e. in the Course B example above two strokes) must be added to the handicaps of the
competitors who play from the tees from which players would return the lower ‘“Playing to Handicap‘
score (i.e. in the above example, the women – see table below).
Example:
Men’s Course (White Tees): SSS 70, Par 72 : Ladies’ Course (Red Tees): SSS 70, Par 70
Score required to Strokes received for Strokes received for Competition
‘Play to Handicap’ Handicap Purposes Purposes
Woman 36 pts. Playing Handicap Playing Handicap + 2
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Man 38 pts. Playing Handicap Playing Handicap
The additional stroke(s) shall be applied consecutively from the lowest Stroke Index hole(s) where
players do not receive a stroke using their normal Playing Handicap (i.e. a 12 handicap player receiving
an extra allowance of two strokes would get them at holes with Stroke Index 13 and 14). ‘Plus‘ handicap
players would give fewer strokes back to the course starting from the lowest Stroke Index hole where
they concede strokes.
Where the Competition Handicap Allowance calculated for a player differs from their Playing Handicap,
the Committee must make the player aware of their total stroke allowance for the competition. It is
recommended that the Competition Handicap Allowance is recorded on the player’s scorecard
alongside the player’s Playing Handicap.
It must be stressed that this adjustment is only to provide an equitable competition result. Any
adjustments must be disregarded when determining the CSS and the Nett Differential for handicapping
calculations.
For handicap purposes the Nett Differential is determined by applying the Table contained in Appendix
D following calculation of the Competition Scratch Score.
3. Par / Bogey Competitions
A similar principle to that outlined in Clause 2 above should be applied to Par/Bogey Competitions
played from different sets of tees when calculating appropriate Competition Handicap Allowances. This
would also apply to a scratch result in the same manner as that for Stableford above.
Example:
Men’s Course (White Tees): SSS 72, Par 71. Ladies’ Course (Red Tees): SSS 72, Par 73
Result required to Strokes Received for Strokes Received for Competition
‘Play to Handicap’ Handicap purposes Purposes
Woman 1 Up Playing Handicap Playing Handicap
Man 1 down Playing Handicap Playing Handicap + 2
Note 1. The foregoing methods of handicap adjustment for the different Qualifying formats cannot be
applied to Men and Women (or Boys and Girls) playing from the same set of tees unless a
Standard Scratch Score has been allocated for each gender. In such circumstances a woman
playing from the Men’s tees requires an additional stroke allowance to the extent determined
by the difference in the Men’s and Ladies’ Standard Scratch Scores.
For a 6000 yard course the difference in the respective Standard Scratch Scores would be of
the order of 5 strokes.
These strokes should not be regarded as ‘courtesy shots’. They are an entitlement necessary
to equalise the handicaps of the participating groups.
Note 2. To comply with the Rules of Golf 3-3b(4) the player should record his/her Playing Handicap
on the score card. Players are advised to also record their appropriate Competition Handicap
Allowance on the scorecard, where this is different.
B. Adjusting handicaps in an equitable manner – Use of the Single CSS Adjustment
If separate CSS calculations are made for each set of tees used it is frequently the case that the
resulting adjustments (i.e. -1, zero, +1, +2, +3, +3 R/O) are different and this can be difficult to explain
or justify. This difference is more pronounced if at least one set of players form a small field as is
frequently the case in junior competitions as there may often be only one or two girls in a field dominated
by boys.
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A more equitable solution is to use the performance (i.e. those within their own buffer zones) relative
to the SSS of the tees used for all the competitors (in Categories 1 to 4) in the field to calculate one
adjustment. This adjustment is applied to the SSS’s of the tees used. The details of the calculations
are given in Appendix B Clauses 2.1 to 2.4 and Examples 4 and 5 in Appendix B demonstrate how this
can be applied in practice.
The use of the Single CSS Adjustment is recommended for all situations in which players play in a
Qualifying Competition from different sets of tees (see page 62). This should be extended to the
situation where multiple Qualifying Competitions over the same course and different tees take place on
the same day. All scores should be combined to provide a Single CSS Adjustment.
B. Applying Handicap Allowances for other forms of competition
For other forms of golf (e.g. 4 Ball Better Ball, Greensomes etc) the allowance for the type of competition
should be applied (Appendix F provides the allowances for each type of competition). The order of
application of Adjustments and Allowances is detailed in Decision 6(b) in this manual.
Decision relevant to Appendix O

6(b) Handicap Adjustments made for competitions where competitors play from different tees and
when there are also handicap allowances to be applied for the type of competition.
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APPENDIX P
DISQUALIFIED SCORES IN QUALIFYING COMPETITIONS
Clause 17.1(c) of the UHS provides that a Player Handicap Record must include Disqualified Scores
which, when corrected, may be acceptable for handicap purposes.
The corrected score may be within the player’s Buffer Zone or qualify for a handicap reduction.
Otherwise an increase in Exact Handicap of 0.1 shall be applied, unless the calculated CSS is
CSS=SSS+3 R/O.
To accept a Disqualified Score as a ‘correct score’ the Committee must verify the score in such manner
as it shall deem appropriate. All penalty strokes must be included in the score for handicap purposes.
When a Disqualified Score has been so accepted as a Qualifying Score before the last card has been
returned to the Committee, the corrected score must be included in the calculation of the Competition
Scratch Score. Otherwise for Competition Scratch Score purposes the card shall be regarded as a ‘No
Return’.
The following are examples where scores shall be corrected for handicap purposes following
disqualification from the competition by the Committee in charge.
Rule No. Nature of Breach Action for Handicap Purposes Note
Adjust score for hole at which offence
Failure to hole out in stroke occurred under Clause 19
3.3(c) 1
play (Stableford / Nett Double Bogey
Adjustment)
If correct score can be ascertained –
Doubt as to procedure – accept for handicap, failing which adjust
20.1(c) failure to inform Committee under Clause 19
of procedure adopted (Stableford / Nett Double Bogey
Adjustment)
Handicap on card too high Adjust handicap to provide a correct
3.3(b)
score
No handicap included on
3.3(b) Score acceptable
card
Card not signed by player or Score acceptable unless marker had a
3.3(b) 2
marker valid reason not to sign card
Undue delay in returning
3.3(b) Score acceptable
scorecard
Score entered on card on a Accept adjusted score unless breach
3.3(b) hole is lower than actual premeditated 2
score
Play from outside of teeing Adjust score under Clause 19
6.1 ground not corrected (Stableford / Nett Double Bogey 1
Adjustment)
Play of wrong ball not Adjust score under Clause 19
6.3 corrected (Stableford / Nett Double Bogey 1
Adjustment)
Serious breach of ball Adjust score under Clause 19
14.7 played from wrong place not (Stableford / Nett Double Bogey 1
corrected Adjustment)
If correct score can be ascertained –
accept for handicap purposes, failing
Play of second ball not
20.1(c) which adjust under Clause 19
reported to the Committee
(Stableford / Nett Double Bogey
Adjustment)
Note 1: As a general principle, if a score would have been acceptable under Stableford conditions it
should, whenever possible, be acceptable for handicap purposes in Stroke Play following
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Clause 19 adjustment for any hole where the player has either failed to hole out, or failed
to produce a score that satisfied the Rules of Golf.
Note 2: If the offence has any possible premeditated element or, could have adversely affected the
play of a fellow competitor, the score should normally be regarded as a ‘No Return’.
The following are situations when the player has been disqualified, where a score shall not be
regarded as a correct score. The score must be regarded as a ‘No Return’ and a handicap increase of
0.1 shall be applied to the Exact Handicap, unless the CSS calculates as CSS=SSS+3 R/O. In
calculating the Gross & Nett Differentials, each hole should be treated as a Nett Double bogey and
calculated accordingly.
Rule No. Nature of Breach Action for Handicap Purposes
Exerting undue influence on
1-2 Not acceptable
ball – serious breach
1-3 Agreement to waive rule Not acceptable
Refusal to comply with a
1.3 Not acceptable
Rule(s) of Golf
4.1 Use of non-conforming clubs Not acceptable
Excess club not declared out
4.1(c) Not acceptable
of play
Golf ball not on conforming list
(when required as a condition Not acceptable
4.2
of the competition)
Playing characteristics of ball
4.2 Not acceptable
changed
Player failing to start within 5
5.3 minutes of the correct starting Not acceptable
time and returning a score
Employing more than one Not acceptable, where the competitor fails to
10.3 caddie report his breach to the Committee and a
penalty of DQ is consequently applied
Undue delay (repeated Not acceptable
5.6
offence)
Discontinuance of play, unless
5.7 reason for discontinuance Not acceptable
acceptable to Committee
Practice before or between
5.2 Not acceptable
rounds
6.2 Use of non-conforming tee Not acceptable
Playing from the wrong teeing
ground (not corrected and
6.1 Not acceptable
resulting in the stipulated
round not being played)
Use of artificial device,
4.3 unusual equipment or unusual Not acceptable
use of equipment.
Ball assisting play (if
Committee determines
15.3 competitor has agreed not to Not acceptable
lift a ball that might assist
another player)
Where match play and stroke
6-C(12) play formats are played in the Not acceptable
same round
Disqualification penalty
20.2(e) Not acceptable
imposed by Committee
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Use of Alternative to Stroke

Model Local
and Distance used in Not acceptable
Rule E-5
qualifying competition
Note 3: The first time a banned function of a DMD is used, the penalty is 2 shots on the hole it
was observed. A subsequent use results in disqualification. To be a valid score for
handicap, the 2 shot penalty must be recorded on the players’ score.
A Disqualified Score must be entered into the Player Handicap Record.
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APPENDIX Q
ADVICE ON RUNNING THE CONTINUOUS HANDICAP REVIEW
In 2016 CONGU introduced the Continuous Handicap Review (Clause 23D) to run alongside the Annual
Review (AR) Report to identify those players who may be struggling to play to handicap during the
season.
Your handicap software includes a report that will identify players that have received at least 7
consecutive x 0.1 increases. We would recommend that you run this report at least once per quarter.
The handicap committee should then review the report and consider the following steps to narrow down
the list to highlight those players most in need.
To answer these questions you will need:
• The playing record of each player identified
• Knowledge of previous Annual or Continuous Handicap Reviews
• Knowledge of the Player (age, ill health or injury)
In the last 12 months has the player played to handicap or better?

In the current season played to Buffer Zone or better?
Yes No
No
Leave – No Action Required. Is the player affected by
Rely on the Annual Handicap Review Age or Infirmity?
process.
Yes
Continue to the Detect

Decliner process.
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Detect Decliner
Step 1
Has the player appeared on the previous Annual Handicap Review (AHR) report or the previous
Continuous Handicap Review (CHR) report?
If Yes – then the player is likely to be a decliner and was either in need of a larger adjustment on that
occasion or they have continued to decline. Continue to Action.
If No – continue to step 2.
Step 2
Consider how many 0.1 returns are in the scoring sequence and over what period of time
This will give an indication of whether this is a player undergoing a gentle decline, a player simply
undergoing a period of poor form or a player in sharp decline. Continue to Action
Action
Having considered the evidence, you may decide not to take immediate action and instead defer for
further consideration after the next AHR/CHR.
Alternatively, you may decide the player is indeed a decliner in need of an immediate handicap
increase. Whilst the evidence may suggest an apparent need to increase the handicap significantly,
we would advise that this should be carried out in stages over a period of reviews unless there are
exceptional circumstances which would justify an immediate larger adjustment.
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PART SIX
DECISIONS
Index to Decisions
1. Qualifying Competitions – Clause 17
2. Qualifying Scores – Clause 17
3. Competition Scratch Score – Clause 18
4. Alteration of Handicaps – Clause 20
5. Review of Handicaps – Clause 23
6. Handicap Allowance – Appendix F
7. Golf Course
8. Categories of Golf Club Membership
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INDEX TO DECISIONS
1. Qualifying Competitions – Clause 17

1(b) Status of a competition when artificially surfaced tees are in use
1(c) Status of competition when a local rule allowing Cleaning and Placing in the General Area is
in operation.
1(d) Status of a competition when competitors are required to lift a ball from the fairway and place
in semi-rough
1(e) Status of a competition when bunkers are undergoing renovation
1(f) Status of a competition when green staff have carried out maintenance work during the
course of the competition
1(g) Status of a competition in which shotgun starts are employed or competitors are
authorised by the committee to start other than at the first tee
1(h) Status of a play-off
1(i) Handicap to be used in event of a Member holding a handicap from more than one
handicapping authority
1(j) Limitation of handicaps in Qualifying Competitions
1(k) Removed
1(l) Status of aggregate competitions
1(m) Competition conditions that apply solely to the UHS
1(n) Failure to comply with a competition condition requiring entry by applying a swipe card to a
computer terminal
1(o) Failure to report ‘Away’ scores affecting handicap
1(p) Failure to return a scorecard on completion of round causing inconvenience to Handicap
Committee
1(q) Abandoned competition where no completed scores are submitted
2. QUALIFYING SCORES – Clause 17

2(a) Competitions extending over more than one round
2(b) status of scores in extended competitions with eclectic or aggregate awards
2(c) Reserved
2(d) Status of a marker in a Qualifying Competition
2(e) Status of scores returned from outside the jurisdiction of CONGU®
2(f) Player Score counts for 2 Competitions on the Same Day
2(g) Status of Individual Competition played in conjunction with a 4BBB Competition
3. COMPETITION SCRATCH SCORE – Clause 18

3(a) Reserved
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4. ALTERATION OF HANDICAPS – Clause 20

4(a) Alteration of handicaps in the course of a competition over more than one round
Treatment of players who withdraw from the 2nd or subsequent round of a competition
4(b)
played over more than one round
5. REVIEW OF HANDICAPS – Clause 23

5(a) Consequences if a reduction of handicap under Clause 23 (Review of Handicaps) is
inappropriately applied
5(b) General Play Adjustment applied at a time when the player has not returned relevant
Away scores – consequent action
6. HANDICAP ALLOWANCE – Appendix F

6(a) Plus Handicaps – strokes conceded when other than full handicap allowance applied
7. GOLF COURSE
7(a) Teeing areas
7(b) Distance points and Measured Course
8. CATEGORIES OF GOLF CLUB MEMBERSHIP

8(a) Status of ‘Handicap Only’ or ‘Competition Handicap’ (or the like) categories of golf club
membership in the context of the CONGU® Definition of a Member
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1. QUALIFYING COMPETITIONS - Clause 17
Dec.1(a) Status of a competition when the use of fairway mats is obligatory (Revised)
Q. May an Affiliated Club conduct a Qualifying Competition(s) when the use of fairway mats to
protect the course is obligatory?
A. Yes, a club may run Qualifying Competition(s) under such conditions provided:
• their use is restricted to the preferred lie period (period as directed by the Union).
• all other requirements for Competition Play Conditions have been satisfied.
• a Local Rule for the use of fairway mats has been set out in the Terms of Competition.
• The mat is not to be used for strokes made with a putter.
The suggested wording is:
‘When a player’s ball lies in a part of the general area cut to fairway height or less and a putter is
not being used for the stroke, the ball must be lifted, placed on and played from an Astroturf, or
similar type of, mat. The mat must be placed as near as possible to where the ball originally lay,
and the ball must be placed on the mat. The ball may be cleaned when lifted.
If a ball when placed rolls off the mat, the player must try to place it a second time. If the ball again
does not stay on the mat, the mat must be moved to the nearest spot, not nearer the hole, where
the ball will come to rest on the mat when placed.
If the player accidentally causes the ball on the mat to move before a stroke is made, there is no
penalty and the ball must be placed again on the mat.
If a tee is used to secure the mat into the ground, the ball must not be placed on the tee.’
The purpose of this decision is to help promote Qualifying Competitions whenever possible during
the preferred lie period.
Dec.1(b) Status of a competition when artificially surfaced tees are in use
Q1. May an Affiliated Club conduct Qualifying Competitions when artificially surfaced tees e.g.
Astroturf are in use?
A1. Qualifying Competitions may be played under such conditions provided:
• the artificial tees are located at positions that relate to a Measured Course or the altered course
has been allocated a Standard Scratch Score by the Union or Area Authority if so delegated;
and
• all other requirements for Competition Play Conditions have been satisfied.
Q2. Do artificially surfaced tees e.g. on concrete bases that do not strictly comply with the Rules of
Golf definition of a Teeing Ground satisfy the above decision and permit the conduct of
Qualifying Competitions?
A2. Although artificially surfaced tees do not generally satisfy the two club-lengths in depth
requirement in the Rules of Golf definition of a teeing ground, in such circumstances it is
considered that the spirit of the rule is being honoured and that Qualifying Competitions can be
played.
Status of a competition when a local rule allowing Clean and Place ball in the
Dec.1(c)
General Area is in operation
Q. May a club run a Qualifying Competition when a Local Rule allowing cleaning of the ball in the
General Area is in place?
A. Yes
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Status of a competition when competitors are required to lift a ball from the
Dec.1(d)
fairway and place in semi-rough
Q. Would the introduction of a Local Rule permitting lifting the ball from the fairway and dropping into
the semi-rough (first cut), in order to protect the fairway, render the competition Non-Qualifying?
A. Yes, as such a procedure is not within the Rules of Golf, the competition is Non-Qualifying. To
make it a Qualifying Competition, an alternative solution to fairway protection such as the use of
preferred lies or fairway mats is required.
Dec.1(e) Status of a competition when bunkers are undergoing renovation
Q. May an Affiliated Club conduct Qualifying Competitions when some bunkers on the golf course
are being renovated, for example, in the course of a phased maintenance programme.
A. Yes, provided that the club has defined the relevant bunker areas as ground under repair. Rules
of Golf Definition of a Bunker clarifies that the status of bunkers defined in this way are
automatically classified as “through the green” unless the Committee specifically states
otherwise.
Status of a competition when green staff have carried out maintenance work
Dec.1(f)
during the course of the competition
Q. Does maintenance work such as the cutting of rough, greens or watering of the greens in the
course of a competition render the competition Non-Qualifying?
A. No. Although not desirable, it is not unusual for course maintenance work to be carried out during
the course of a competition. It is inadvisable, however, to conduct a Qualifying Competition on a
day in which an operation such as hollow coring that has a disruptive influence on the playing of
the game is being conducted.
Status of a competition in which shotgun starts are employed or competitors are

Dec.1(g)
authorised by the Committee to start other than at the first tee
Competitions in which competitors are authorised by the Committee to commence play elsewhere than
from the first tee will be Qualifying Competitions for handicap purposes provided all other requirements
of the UHS are satisfied. This includes ‘Shotgun Starts’.
Dec.1(h) Status of a play-off
A play-off over 18 or 9 holes is deemed to be a means of settling a tie in a stroke play event and is not
classed as a Qualifying Competition for handicap purposes.
Handicap to be used in event of a Member holding a handicap from more than

Dec.1(i)
one handicapping authority
When a Member of an Affiliated Club also holds a handicap from a Handicapping Authority other than
CONGU®, he must enter and play from his CONGU® Handicap in all Qualifying Competitions.
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Dec.1(j) Limitation of handicaps in Qualifying Competitions
Q. May an Affiliated Club impose a limit of handicap to some of their Qualifying Competitions e.g.
insist that a player with a Playing Handicap of 27 competes from a handicap of 18?
A. This is contrary to the spirit of the UHS. Players must be allowed to play from their established
handicap.
The player must play off full handicap and the correct Playing Handicap must be used when
calculating the Competition Scratch Score. The organising Committee may then adjust the scores
for the purpose of awarding prizes for the competition.
Status of a competition when a Local Rule permitting the use of electronic

Dec.1(k)
distance measuring devices is in operation
REMOVED
.
Dec.1(l) Status of aggregate competitions
Q. In what circumstances can scores in Aggregate Competitions be accepted as Qualifying

Scores?
A. When players take part in a competition under Competition Play Conditions in which the scores
of two or more players are aggregated, and none of the participants in partnership play in the
same group, the competition should be regarded as a Qualifying Competition and all scores
recorded as Qualifying Scores.
When players in partnership play, or can play, in the same group the competition is not a
Qualifying Competition and the scores returned should be disregarded for handicap purposes.
Dec.1(m) Competition conditions that apply solely to the UHS
Q. The administration of handicapping has become increasingly the domain of the computer resulting
in Handicap Committees requiring competitors to provide assistance in various ways beyond that
required by the Rules of Golf. These include:
• total the score and apply the correct handicap;
• enter and total Stableford points on their card;
• on completion of the round enter scores hole by hole into a computer terminal;
• enter on the scorecard their computer reference number;
• indicate on the card scores to be adjusted by the application of Nett Double Bogey or the
Stableford formula;
Can the Committee in charge of the competition, or Handicap Committee, impose a penalty under
the Rules of Golf when a player fails to comply with a request of the nature listed above?
A. R&A Rules Limited has confirmed that ’provided a player fulfils the requirements of Rule 3/3(b) a
penalty cannot be imposed under the Rules of Golf for failure to comply with these conditions.
However, imposing a penalty of a disciplinary nature, such as suspension of handicap is not
considered to be contrary to the Rules of Golf.’ An alternative penalty would be to suspend the
player’s right to compete in club competitions for a specified period. (See Committee Procedures
5-A.5).
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Failure to comply with a competition condition requiring entry by applying a

Dec.1(n)
swipe card to a computer terminal (Revised)
Q. A club has a Competition Condition requiring entry by applying a swipe card to a computer
terminal. What is the situation if a player fails to fulfil this obligation?
A. R&A Rules Limited has ruled that a Committee must lay down a procedure for entry (See
Committee Procedures 5.A.2) and if a competitor fails to enter a competition in the correct manner
he does not have an acceptable score.’ Accordingly such a player does not have a score either
for the competition or for handicap purposes.
Clubs requiring players to make a computer entry for sign-in and /or score entry should ensure
that they have contingency plans for their players to follow in the event that technical issues
prevent players from complying with such Terms of Competition.
Dec.1(o) Failure to report ‘Away’ scores affecting handicap
Q. A player failed to report to his Home Club one or more Qualifying Scores recorded away from the
Home Club that would have resulted in a handicap reduction. Despite the fact that he was aware
that a reduction in handicap should have been applied by himself under the provisions of Clause
20.11, he continued to play in competitions from a higher handicap than that to which he was
entitled. What action can be taken?
A. He should be disqualified in all relevant competitions for returning a score card on which the
recorded handicap was higher than that to which he was entitled. The fact that the competition
had closed makes no difference. In addition, in the absence of a satisfactory explanation the
Home Club may consider suspending the player’s handicap under Clause 24.1. Any prize(s) won
should be returned.
Failure to return a scorecard on completion of round causing inconvenience to

Dec.1(p)
Handicap Committee
Q. A few players fail frequently to return a scorecard on completion of their round in a Qualifying
Competition causing the Handicap Committee additional work in establishing the player(s) who
have failed to return cards in order that the competition can be closed and handicap adjustments
made as appropriate. What sanctions can a club take against a player who fails to fulfil this basic
requirement?
A. The club would be entitled to suspend the player’s right to compete in club competitions for a
specified period or, for more persistent offences, suspend his handicap for an appropriate period.
Dec.1(q) Abandoned Competition where no completed rounds have been submitted
If a competition is abandoned before any competitor has completed a round, there is no CSS calculated
and no handicap adjustments must be made on the basis of any partially completed rounds.
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2. QUALIFYING SCORES – Clause 17
Dec.2(a) Competitions extending over more than one round
Q. May a player who fails to return a score, or is disqualified, in an early round of a competition over
more than one round, continue to play in some or all of the remaining rounds?
A. At the discretion of the organising Committee, unless prohibited from doing so by the Terms of
Competition, a player may continue to play in subsequent rounds. He shall be regarded as
competing in a Qualifying Competition and his score must be included in the Competition Scratch
Score calculation.
Dec.2(b) Status of scores in extended competitions with eclectic or aggregate awards
If, from a series of an unspecified number of scores, special prizes are awarded for the best eclectic
score or the best nett or gross aggregate of a prescribed number of scores, the individual scores in the
series will be Qualifying Scores provided each score is returned under Competition Play Conditions in
a Qualifying Competition and not returned solely for the purpose of the eclectic, nett or gross aggregate
awards where only a limited number of scores at holes have been recorded on the scorecard.
Dec.2(c) Reserved
Dec.2(d) Status of a marker in a Qualifying Competition
Q. Can a person, other than a fellow competitor, appointed to act as a marker return a Qualifying
Score for handicap purposes?
A. A person appointed by an organising Committee to act as a marker cannot return a Qualifying
Score for handicap purposes and his score must not be included in the Competition Scratch
Score calculation.
Subject to the provisions of Clause 21 and with permission from the Committee in charge of
the competition the marker may return a Supplementary Score.
Dec.2(e) Status of scores returned from outside the jurisdiction of CONGU®
Q1. A player returns a score(s) from a competition organised by a club affiliated to a handicapping
authority other than CONGU®. Is it a Qualifying Score(s) for handicap purposes?
A1. Such scores should not be used directly to adjust handicaps. They may be recorded by the
Handicap Committee and used in support of the Annual Review or General Play Adjustment.
Q2. A Category 1 player returns four scores from a prestigious National Championship organised by
a handicapping authority other than CONGU® that would warrant a reduction in handicap.
Should these scores be entered in the Player Handicap Record as Qualifying Scores?
A2. The scores should not be regarded as Qualifying Scores unless they are from a competition that
has been approved by the player’s Union as a Qualifying Competition for handicap purposes -
see Clause 4.1(g) Such a competition should always have a Competition Scratch Score (or
equivalent e.g. CBA) calculated.
Q3. A player spends five months in Portugal where he is a member of a club and he plays frequently
in competitions regulated by the EGA Handicapping System. His CONGU® Exact Handicap
when he left for Portugal was 13.7. On return he reported his EGA Exact Handicap was 12.4.
Should a General Play Adjustment be applied to reduce his CONGU® Exact Handicap to 12.4?
A3. No, not directly. Because of differences in the operation of the two handicap systems, an EGA
Exact Handicap is not directly comparable to a CONGU® Exact Handicap.
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The player should be requested to return his current EGA Handicap Certificate to his Home
Club. This will detail the player’s EGA Exact Handicap and the Slope Rating from the
competition tees at his Portuguese golf club. The following formula should be used to determine
the ‘Comparable Exact Handicap’ that applies to his club golf in Portugal:
‘Comparable Exact Handicap’ = EGA Exact Handicap x (Slope Rating of Competition Course/113)
For example if the EGA Exact Handicap is 12.4 and the Slope Rating is 127, the ‘Comparable
Exact Handicap’ is: 12.4 x (127/113) = 13.9.
A difference between the ‘Comparable Exact Handicap’ and the CONGU® Exact Handicap of
within plus or minus 2.0 strokes is considered acceptable. A General Play Adjustment may be
considered if the difference is more than 2.0 strokes above or below.
Q4. A player who resides in Spain in the months of winter and has an EGA Handicap, asks for an
upward revision in his handicap on return as he states that he plays from a handicap two
strokes higher than his CONGU® Handicap at his club in Spain. Should the club increase his
handicap based on this information.
A4. No adjustment should be made solely on the evidence of EGA Course Handicap (equivalent to
a CONGU® Playing Handicap). Course Handicaps in the EGA Handicapping System are
adjusted to take account of differences between Par and the Course Rating as well as Slope.
These adjustments can be up to three strokes different to the equivalent CONGU® Playing
Handicap that would apply. The procedure for calculating the ‘Comparable Exact Handicap’ as
outlined in A3 above should be used.
Q5. A Category 1 player attending a Golf Academy or on a University Golf Scholarship in the USA
returns home and states that he has a USGA Handicap Index lower than his CONGU® Exact
Handicap. Can his Home Club apply a General Play Adjustment to make his CONGU® Exact
Handicap the same as his USGA Handicap Index?
A5. The possible adjustment of the handicap of such a player will be considered by the Union
operating to agreed CONGU® guidelines. To facilitate a review of this nature it is essential that
players in this situation return their full USGA Handicap Record and full scoring record from
tournaments played during the period in question. All this information will be taken into account
by the Union before a decision on any handicap adjustment is made. This is consistent with
applying the audit procedure to Category 1 players who remain within the CONGU®
Handicapping System.
Dec.2(f) Player Score counts for 2 Competitions on the Same Day
Q. Can a person submit one score to count for 2 different competitions on the same day?
A. Whilst it is not against the Rules for one score to count for more than one qualifying competition
on a certain day, it is essential that the single score is not processed in both competitions for
handicap adjustment purposes. For this reason, it is not recommended that this be utilised. If
a club do allow such an approach, it is up to The Committee to ensure that the scores are not
counted twice for handicap purposes. The scenarios under which these may be managed on
the club software are too numerous to provide a specific approach. However, simplistically, if
both are run as separate competitions (as they are of different format – e.g. Medal & Stableford),
one approach would be to generate the competition results for Competition A and then remove
the scores for those players who are also playing in Competition B. The scores would then be
input to Competition B and the results produced for that competition. Once the results have
been completed, each competition can be finalised and handicap adjustments applied. As to
which competition should count for adjusting the handicap of such players, it is a matter of
choice for the club: there is no recommendation.
If the two competitions are of the same format and the combined CSS approach is taken, it is a
simple matter of ensuring that the players whose scores count for both competitions are
included in each result output. As it is a single competition, and the scores are only entered
once, the overall CSS would apply.
109
Status of Individual Competition played in conjunction with a 4BBB

Dec.2(g)
Competition
Where an individual competition score is returned concurrently with a 4BBB Competition, the
individual competition cannot be Qualifying for handicap purposes. Some rules for a 4BBB are
applied differently to an individual competition and, under the Rules of Golf, take precedence
over the individual round. It is for this reason that it cannot be a qualifying score.
3. COMPETITION SCRATCH SCORE – Clause 18
Dec.3(a) Reserved
4. ALTERATION OF HANDICAPS – Clause 20
Dec.4(a) Alteration of handicaps in the course of a competition over more than one round
In a Stroke Play or Match Play competition played over more than one round, the Committee in charge,
in the Terms of the Competition, are required to establish whether or not the handicap of a player at
the start of the competition applies throughout the competition.
In framing the Terms of Competition played over more than one round, the following guidelines are
recommended.
1. In a competition such as a 36hole or 72-hole competition played in the same day or over a number
of days within a short period of time the handicap of a player applying at the beginning of a competition
shall apply throughout the duration of the competition. CONGU® strongly recommends that ‘a short
period of time’ be interpreted as being on the same or consecutive days and that anything else
represents ‘an extended period of time’.
2. In a competition where individual rounds are over an extended period of time and there has been
the opportunity to compete in other unrelated competitions between rounds, a player must play from
the handicap current at the time of entry for each of the individual rounds of the competition.
This would apply for example, in a competition where a prize is awarded for:
(a) the best nett aggregate in the Spring, Summer and Autumn meetings each of which was a
separate competition in its own right; or
(b) the best nett aggregate in a specified number of Monthly Medal competitions.
3. In a match play competition in which the rounds are played on successive days to establish a winner
the original handicap applies throughout the competition.
4. In a match play competition in which the individual rounds have a ‘to be played by’ date over an
extended period of time, a player should play from the handicap current at the time of each match play
round.
Treatment of players who withdraw from the 2 nd or subsequent round of a

Dec.4(b)
competition over more than one round
Regardless of the reason, a player who does not commence the 2 nd or subsequent round of a
competition must not be included in that round. They should neither be included in the CSS Calculation
nor have any adjustment made to their handicap as a result of the round not played.
110
5. REVIEW OF HANDICAPS – Clause 23
Consequences if a reduction of handicap under Clause 23 (Review of

Dec.5(a)
Handicaps) is inappropriately applied
A reduction of handicap pursuant to Clause 23 can be made only when the Handicap Committee has
reason to believe that the handicap of a player may be too high.
If the handicap of any player is reduced other than to the extent required by clause 20 or the correct
application of clause 23, the player’s handicap will not be a CONGU® Handicap and must not be used
in any competition for which a CONGU® Handicap is required.
General Play Adjustment applied at a time when the player has not returned
Dec.5(b)
relevant Away scores – consequent action
A player competed in Qualifying Competitions away from his Home Club and subsequently reported
these scores to his Home Club. However, before he reported the scores his handicap was adjusted
under Clause 23 (B), General Play Adjustment.
If the away Qualifying Competition score or scores would have reduced the player’s Exact Handicap to
a lower handicap than that provided by the Clause 23 (B) adjustment, then the player’s Exact Handicap
must be further adjusted, otherwise the Exact Handicap adjusted under General Play Adjustment shall
stand. The club may, at its discretion, reconsider the Clause 23 (B) adjustment in the light of the further
information.
6. HANDICAP ALLOWANCES – Appendix F
Plus handicaps – strokes conceded when other than full handicap allowance
Dec.6(a)
applied
When calculating the number of strokes a plus handicap player should give the course when other than
full allowance is to be applied, the rounding of fractions of a stroke shall be carried out in the usual way
by rounding any 0.5 of a stroke upwards.
As a handicap of plus is mathematically a minus handicap (below zero), a 90% allowance applied to a
handicap of plus 5 equals –4.5 which rounds upwards to –4 strokes. Strokes should be conceded to
the course at the holes allocated stroke indexes 15, 16, 17 and18.
The same will apply when calculating the 9-hole handicap allowance of a plus-handicap player. The
general formula to do this is 9-hole Handicap Allowance = (Exact Handicap + 9-Hole SS – (9-Hole Par
x 2)) / 2. So applying this to a player with a handicap of plus 4.0 on a 9-hole course with an SS of 73
and a par of 35 would give the following:
111
Handicap Adjustments made for competitions in which competitors play

Dec.6(b) from different tees and when there are also handicap allowances to be
applied for the type of competition
When a competition is played in which there are competitors playing from different tees and the type of
competition requires that a handicap allowance is also applied, the adjustment to handicap due to the
different tees must be applied first before the allowance for the competition is applied.
Example:
A mixed 4-Ball Better Ball competition:
Men’s Course (White Tees): SSS 70, Par 72 : Ladies’ Course (Red Tees): SSS 70, Par 70
Score required to ‘Play
Adjustment for different Tees Allowance for Competition
to Handicap’
Woman 36 pts Playing Handicap + 2 (Playing Handicap + 2) x 90%
Man 38 pts. Playing Handicap Playing Handicap x 90%
7. GOLF COURSE
Dec.7(a) Decision Removed – See Appendix A
Dec.7(b) Distance points and Measured Course
On some golf courses the placing of Distance Points at the back of the tees has made it difficult to
conform to the definition of a teeing ground in the Rules of Golf and also to satisfy the requirements of
Clause 12 of the UHS.
In order to clarify the situation and ensure that Qualifying Competitions are played over courses of
correct length the following provisions now apply:
(a) Distance Points on all new courses and on any new holes or holes that have had their length
altered on existing courses must be placed not less than four yards from the back of each tee;
(b) on a reassessment of an existing Standard Scratch Score the calculation must provide for each
hole being measured from a point not less than four yards forward of the back of each tee;
(c) any competition played over a course which fails to provide teeing grounds as defined by the
Rules of Golf or to satisfy Clause 12 of the UHS shall be a Non Qualifying Competition;
(d) in exceptional circumstances a Union or Area Authority may sanction in writing the use of a
Teeing Ground that does not satisfy these requirements.
Note : There is no requirement to change or reposition Distance Points on Existing Courses except
under sub-clause (a) above.
It should also be noted that the requirements for a Measured Course include provision for tee markers
to be placed in front as well as behind the Distance Point – see definition of a Competition
Tee.
112
8. CATEGORIES OF GOLF CLUB MEMBERSHIP
Dec.8(a) Status of ‘Handicap Only’ or ‘Competition Handicap’ (or the like) categories of
golf club membership in the context of a CONGU® Definition of a Member.
It is a matter for individual golf clubs to determine the nature of their categories of membership.
However, forms or categories of membership such as ‘Handicap Only’ or ‘Competition Membership’
satisfy neither the spirit nor intent of the definition of a ‘Member’ as contained in the CONGU UHS and
do not qualify for the allotment of a CONGU ® Handicap.
To satisfy the definition, ‘Members’ of a golf club should have a reasonable and regular opportunity to
play golf with each other, including participating in Qualifying Competitions. Peer review is an essential
component of the UHS.
Affiliated Clubs if, and when, considering the introduction of new or modified forms or categories of
Membership can obtain guidance in regard to compliance with the definition of a ‘Member’ and eligibility
for allotment of a CONGU® Handicap from their Union.
113
INDEX
Abandoned Competition
CSS regarded as equal to the SSS [Clause 18.7]
Handicap reductions based on SSS [Clause 18.7]
Handicap increases shall not apply [Clause 18.7]
Requirement of player to report information [Clause 8 Note 2]
Affiliated Club [Def.]. See also Home Club

Act as Handicap Authority [Clause 6.1]
Appoint a Handicap Committee [Clause 6.3]
Assistance required from competitors in competition administration [Dec.1 (m)]
Ensure proper application of UHS [Clause 6 Note]
Permitted adjustments to a Measured Course [Clause 13]
Requirement to have a Certificate of Course Measurement [Clause 6.6]
Requirement to retain handicap records [Clause 6.11]
Requirement to notify Union, or delegated authority, of course length changes [Clause 13.2]
Responsibilities [Clause 6]
Allotment of Handicaps [Clause 16]
Alteration of Handicaps [Clause 20]
Alterations to Existing Courses [Clause 12]
Alternate Day Competition [Def.]
Alternative Greens, Tees [Clause 13]
Annual Review [Clause 23 (A)]
Appeal Procedure
Appoint Committees to administer Clause 23 and 24 [Clauses 4.1(d), 5.3, 6.9]
Obligations of Union [Clauses 4.1(d), 4.1(e)]
Obligations of Area Authority [Clauses 5.3, 5.4]
Obligations of Club [Clauses 6.9, 6.10]
Procedure available to player related to suspension and loss of handicap [Clauses 23.6, 24.4]
Area Authority [Def.]

Away Player
Discretion to reduce handicap for singles competition [Clause 23.9, Dec. 1 (j)]
Away Scores
Consequences of failure to report [Clause 8 Note 1, Dec. 1(o)]
Late reporting at time of General Play Adjustment [Dec. 5(b)]
Responsibility of player to report [Clause 8.10]
Responsibility of player to reduce own handicap [Clause 20.11]
Status of scores returned from outside the jurisdiction of CONGU® [Dec. 2(e)]
Upward self-adjustment of playing handicap [Clause 8.5/1 shaded box, Clause 20.11 note to]
Belonging to more than one Club. See also Member

Entitlement to only one handicap [Clause 8.1]
Procedure for change of Home Club [Clause 8.3]
Reporting to Home Club names of other Affiliated Clubs [Clause 8.4]
Selecting Home Club [Clause 8.2 shaded box]
114
Buffer Zone [Def.]

Buffer Zone bands related to Handicap Category [Def.]
CSS calculation based on Category Buffer Zones (Clause 18.1/1 shaded box)
Explanation of Buffer Zone [Clause 20.3 shaded box]
Influence in adjustment of Exact Handicap [Clause 20.3, 20.4, 20.5, 20.6]
Modification for Nine Hole Qualifying Competitions [Clause 22.9]
Central Database of Handicaps [Def.]

Automatic reporting of scores via CDH / player’s responsibilities [Clause 8.10, Note 3]
Handicap Committee must submit finalised competition scores to CDH [Clause 7.4, 7.7(b)]
CDH ID Number [Def.]

Player responsibility to produce CDH ID Number [Clause 8.1]
Member notification to all clubs of which he is a Member [Clause 8.2, 8.4]
Verification of Members CDH ID Number when changing home clubs [Clause 7.7(e)]
Certificates
Club should display prominently a Standard Scratch Score Certificate for each set of tees
from which Qualifying Competitions are played [Clause 6.6]
Club requirement to have a current Certificate of Course Measurement for each set of tees
from which Qualifying Competitions are played [Clause 6.6]
Obligation of Affiliated Club to issue CONGU® Handicap Certificates [Clause 6.4]
Obligation of player to produce a CONGU® Handicap Certificate if so required [Clause 8.1]
Obligation of player on requesting a CONGU® Handicap Certificate [Clause 24.3]
Competition Play Conditions [Def.]. See also Qualifying Competitions [Def.]
Competition scratch Score (CSS) [Def.]

Abandoned competition – regarded as equal to Standard Scratch Score [Clauses 17.1(b), 18.7]
Calculation for ‘small fields’ [Clause 18.4, 18.5, App. B]
Competition Scratch Score [Clause 18]
Competition Scratch Score - calculation examples [App. B]
Competition Scratch Score - procedure for calculation [App. B]
Competition Scratch Score Tables [App. B]
Competitors playing from different sets of tees [App. O]
In event of calculation resulting in scores for Reduction Only [Clause 18.3, 18.6]
Open competitions, separate calculation for Home and Away players [App. B2]
The Single CSS adjustment [App. B, App O]
When a club runs two or more separate competitions on same day [Dec. 3(a)]
Competitions. See Qualifying Competition [Def.]
Compliance Checklist [App. L]
Computers in Handicap Maintenance and Control

Computer generated CONGU® Handicap Certificates [App. H]
Failure to comply with computer based entry requirements [Dec. 1(n)]
Obligation of Affiliated Club to use software licensed by CONGU® [Clause 6.5]
Obligation of Union to provide required information for Central Database of Handicaps [Clause 6.12]
Provision of information by Home Club to provide information for Central Database of Handicaps
[Clause 8.11]
Software relating to the CONGU ® Unified Handicapping System [App. H]
Specification requirements for licensed software [App. H]
Complaints
Referred to CONGU® for resolution [Clause 3.7]
Regarding the application of the UHS [Clause 6 Note]
115
CONGU® Handicap [Def.]
Continuous Handicap Review [Def.]
Council of National Golf Unions Ltd. [CONGU®]

Composition [inside cover]
Website address [inside cover]
Purpose and operation [Clause 1]
Course Related. See Qualifying Competitions, Measured Course

Conditions governing use of Preferred Lies [Clause 15]
Golf Course Measurement [Clause 11, App. A]
Location of Distance Points [Def., Dec.7(b)]
New golf course, application for Standard Scratch Score [Clause 12.1]
Permitted adjustments to a Measured Course in Qualifying Competitions [Clause 13]
Permitted adjustments in Nine-Hole competitions [Clause 13 Note]
Position and recommended colour of tees and markers [Clause 14]
Requirement of club to have a current Certificate of Measurement [Clauses 6.6 and 11]
Requirement of club to notify Union/Area Authority of changes in length [Clauses 6.7, 12.2]
System for assessment of Standard Scratch Score [Clause 9]
Differentials [Def.]
Disciplinary Matters. See also Appeal Procedure

Consequences of suspension of membership [Clause 24.5, 24.6, 24.8]
Consequences relating to a request for a CONGU® Handicap Certificate [Clause 24.3]
Disciplinary proceedings [Clause 24.2]
Procedure available to player related to suspension [Clause 24.4]
Suspension of Handicap [Clause 24.1]
Disqualified Score [Def.] in Qualifying Competitions [App. P]
Distance Point [Def.]

Location on existing courses [Dec. 7(b)]
Location on new courses or new tees [Dec.7(b)]
Electronic Measuring Devices

Status of competition when Local Rule permitting use [Dec.1(k)]
Exceptional Scoring Reduction (ESR) [Def.]
Four-Ball and Foursomes Handicap Allowances [App. F]
General Play Adjustment [Def.] [Clause 23 (B)]

Advising the player of adjustment [Clause 23.5]
Formula, may not apply other than computer software [App. M]
Referring adjustment for Category 1 players to Union/Area Authority [Clause 23.4]
Using all available information to determine [App. M]
Handicapping
Purpose, spirit and intent [Clause 1]
Handicap Adjustments [Clause 20]

Adjustments related to competitions over more than one round [App. I. 6, Dec 4(a)]
Adjustments related to scores outside jurisdiction of CONGU® [Dec. 2(e)]
Advising members of adjustment following Review of Handicaps [Clause 23.5]
Annual Review / General Play Adjustment [Clause 23]
Annual review of handicaps by Handicap Committee [Clause 7.7(i)]
116
Arbitrary General Play Adjustments [Clause 23/6 shaded box]
Guidelines for General Play Adjustments [App. M]

Late reporting at time of General Play Adjustment [Dec. 5(b)]
Stableford / Nett Double Bogey Adjustment [Clause 19]
Upward Self Adjustment of Playing Handicap [Clause 8.5/1 shaded box]
When players / competitors play from different tees [App. O]
Handicap Administration
Allotment of handicaps [Clause 16]
Alteration of handicaps [Clause 20]
Availability of Members’ handicaps in a prominent position [Clause 7.6]
Provision of a Handicap Stroke Index [App. G]
Requirement of Home Club to specify manner of obtaining a handicap [Clause 16.2]
Requirement to apply Stableford/Nett Double Bogey adjustment [Clause 19.1]
Requirement to calculate a Competition Scratch Score [Clauses 4.1(j), 5.5, 7.4, 18.1]
Requirement to record handicaps in chronological order [Clause 7.7(b), App. I 5]
Responsibilities of Handicap Committee [Clause 7]
Responsibilities of Player [Clause 8]
Responsibility to specify arrangements for reporting away scores [Clause 7.7(j)]
Handicaps, Allotment of [Clause 16]

Allotment of handicap lower than calculated [Clause 16.3/1 shaded box]
Requirement of Home Club to specify manner of obtaining a handicap [Clause 16.2]

Written authority of Union, or delegated authority, for Category 1 allocation [Clause 16.3(f)]
Handicap Allowances [App. F] [App. O]

Competition Handicap Allowance [Def. Handicaps, App. O]
Handicap strokes in hole-by-hole play-off [App. F Note 4]
Plus handicaps when other than full allowance applied [Dec. 6(a)]
Rounding of half strokes [App. F Note 1]
Handicap Alterations [Clause 20]
During a competition over more than one round [Dec. 4(a)]

Notification by member to other Affiliated Clubs [Clause 8.4(b)]
Reduction into a lower Handicap Category [Clause 20.7]
Responsibility of player to reduce own handicap [Clause 20.11]
Rounding of Exact to Playing Handicap [Clause 20.8 and Note]
Handicap Committee [Clause 7]

Advising members of adjustment following Review of Handicaps [Clause 23.5, 23.8, 23.15, 23.18]
Composition [Clause 6 shaded box]
Discretion to reduce handicap of away player for single competition [Clause 23.9]
Display alterations to handicaps when made [Clause 7.5]
Procedure for Allotment of Handicaps – responsibilities and discretions [Clause 16.3]
Procedure for regaining a Competition handicap [Clause 26.3, 26.4]
Procedure for restoring a lost or suspended handicap [Clause 26.1, 26.2]
Requirement to make available current record of handicaps [Clause 7.6]
Responsibility to specify manner of reporting away scores [Clause 7.7(j)]
Requirement to carry out an Annual Review of handicaps [Clause 23.1, App. M]
Handicap Increases
117
Handicap Record
Codes used in the Player Handicap Record
Content of Player Handicap Record [App. I]
Responsibility of Handicap Committee to maintain [Clause 7.7(a)]
Specimen Player Handicap Record [App. I]
Handicap Reductions [Clauses 8.5, 20.11]

Away player- Discretion to reduce handicap for Single Competition [Clause 23.9]
Handicaps, Annual Review of [Clause 23 (A)]

Advising members of adjustments following review [Clause 23.5]
Alterations to handicaps one stroke or more [Clause 23.2, 23.3 (a)]
Alterations to handicaps one stroke or more [Clause 23.2, 23.3 (a)]
Computer system to assist review [App. M]
Conducting the Annual Review [Clause 23/2 shaded box]
Guidelines for Annual Review / General Play Adjustment [App. M ]
Processing of Annual Review Recommendations [Clause 23/3 shaded box]
Requirement for Annual Review [Clause 23/1 shaded box]
Responsibility of Handicap Committee to carry out [Clause 7.7(i), 23.1]
Review of Handicaps [Clause 23]
Handicaps, Regaining [Clause 26]

Altering the status of a handicap [Clause 26.3, 26.4]
Following loss or suspension [Clause 26.1, 26.2]
Handicaps, Restoring
Which has been lost or suspended for more than twelve months [Clause 26.2]
Handicaps, Status of [Clause 25]

Competition Handicap (‘c’) [Clause 26.1]
Handicap that is acceptable for entry into competitions [Clause 25.3]
Is lost [Clause 25.1]
Handicaps, Suspension and Loss of Handicap [Clause 24]
Home Club [Def.]

Administration of handicaps [Clause 7.7]
Affiliated Club [Def.]
Changing club – requirement to send copy of handicap record [Clause 7.7(e)]
CSS used when member of more than one club playing over same course [Clause 18.8]
Procedure by member in changing Home Club [Clause 8.3]
Responsibility of player to report names of other Affiliated Clubs [Clause 8.4]
Selection of Home Club [Clause 8.2 and shaded box]
Specify the manner of reporting away scores [Clause 7.7 (j)]
Identifiers
Two and Three Letter identifiers [App. I]
Incomplete Cards
Responsibility to ensure return of all cards [Clause 7.3]
Status of incomplete cards [Clause 7, Note 1]
Increase of Exact Handicap

May restrict increases of Exact Handicaps [Clauses 4.5 (c), 20.10]
Indices [App. G]
Lost and Suspended Handicap [Clause 24]
118
Cessation of membership and loss of handicap [Clause 24.7]

Forfeit of right to enter competitions [Clause 24.8]
Regaining a Lost and Suspended Handicap [Clause 26.1, 26.2]
Suspension and Loss of Handicap [Clause 24]
Match Play
Handicap Allowances as directed by CONGU® [App. F]
Performance in match play – consideration in Review of Handicaps [App. M]
Recommendations for a Handicap Stroke Index [App. G]
Measured Course [Def.]

Alterations to existing courses [Clause 12]
Course Measurement [Clause 11]
New Courses [Clause 12]
Permitted adjustments [Clause 13]
Member [Def.]
Advising of handicap adjustment following Review of Handicaps [Clause 23.5]
Allotment of CONGU® Handicap [Clause 16.1]
Appeal procedure relating to Members [Clauses 4.1(e), 5.4, 6.10, 23.6, 24.4]
Availability of current handicaps in a prominent position [Clause 7.6]
Cessation of membership and loss of handicap [Clause 24.7]
Consequences of suspension of membership [Clause 24.5, 24.6]
If Member of more than one club select Home Club [Clause 8.2]
Entitlement of Member to play in Qualifying Competitions [Def.]
Requirement to retain Handicap Records of past and present Members [Clause 6.11]
Requirements on changing Home Club [Clause 8.3, 8.4]
Responsibility to report Away scores [Clause 8.10]
Mixed and Multi Tee Events [App. O]
New Courses [Clause 12]
Nine-Hole Qualifying Competitions [Clause 22}

Buffer Zones [Clause 22.9]
Competition Handicap Allowance [Clause 22.3]
Competition Scratch Score shall not be calculated [Clause 22.8]
Designated Nine-Hole Course [Clause 22.1]
Must not be part of an 18-hole Qualifying Competition [Clause 22.10]
Non-Qualifying Scores
Adjustment of Handicaps in Non-Qualifying Competitions [Clause 17.3/1 shaded box]
Scores in Non-Qualifying competitions not to be used directly for handicap adjustment [Clause 17.3]
Scores not acceptable as Qualifying Scores [Clause 17.2]
No Return (NR)
Consequences of failure to report [Clause 8 Note 1]
Inclusion in the CSS calculation [App. B 1.1]
Increase in handicap resulting from [Clause 20.4]
Meaning and Usage of Term [Clause 8.10/1 shaded box]
Requirement to report [Clause 8.10]
Sympathetic consideration [Clause 7 – Note 1(c)
One Shot Increase [Clauses 4.5(c), 20.10]
Overseas Affiliate [Def.]

List of overseas affiliates [inside front cover]
Par
119
Establishing Par [Clause 10]

Not an indicator of course difficulty [App. G Note 1]
Par as a basis for handicapping [Clause 9.3/1 shaded box]
Reporting Par scores recorded away from Home Club [Clauses 8.10(b), 8.10(c)]
Table for converting Par scores to Nett Differentials [App. D]
Use of Par in determining Stableford / Nett Double Bogey adjustment [App. C]
Player [Clause 8]. See also Member [Def.]`

Comply with entry conditions for Qualifying Competitions [Clause 8.6]
Have one handicap only [Clause 8.1]
Obtaining a CONGU® Handicap [Clause 16.2]
Prior to competitive play ascertain all handicap reductions have been made [Clause 8.5]
Produce a CONGU® Handicap Certificate on request [Clause 8.9]
Provide information to Home Club on Non-Qualifying Scores (if directed) [Clause 8.12]
Report all Qualifying Scores to Home Club as soon as practicable [Clause 8.10]
Requirements on changing Home Club [Clauses 8.3, 8.4]
Responsibilities of the Player [Clause 8]
Responsibility to reduce own handicap [Clause 20.11]
Return card at conclusion of round in a Qualifying Competition [Clause 8.8]
Specimen Player Handicap Record [App. I]
Upward self-adjustment of handicap [Clause 8.5/1 shaded box]
Play-off
Handicap strokes in Play-off [App. F Note 4]
Status of a Play-off [Dec. 1(h)]
Plus Handicaps [Dec. 6(a)]

Rounding of fractions of a stroke [Clause 20.8 Note 1, Dec. 6(a)]
Stroke Index, strokes conceded to the course [Dec. 6(a)]
When other than full allowance applied [Dec. 6(a)]
Preferred Lies [Clause 15]

Consent required for extension of period {Clause 15.2]
Local Rule [Clause 15.3]
Period during which Competition Play Conditions prevail [Clause 15.1]
Promotion of Qualifying Competitions during the period [Clause 15 shaded box]
Related decisions [Dec. 1(a), Dec. 1(b), Dec 1(c), Dec 1(d)]
Representations for extension of period {Clause 15 shaded box]
120
Qualifying Competitions [Def.]

Competition conditions that apply solely to the UHS [Dec. 1(m)]
Competition Play Conditions [Def.]
Competition Tee [Def.]
Deliberately adjusting status of a competition [Clause 17 introductory shaded box]
Handicap from more than one Handicapping Authority [Dec. 1(i)]
Imposition of limit in handicap [Dec. 1(j)]
Opportunities to compete [Def. of Member]
Obligation of Union to provide list of approved competitions [Clause 4.1(g)]
Obligation of player to comply with entry conditions [Clause 8.6, Dec. 1(m), Dec. 1(n)]
Permitted Adjustment to a Measured Course [Clause 13]
Routine maintenance work has been carried out during a competition [Dec. 1(f)]
Shotgun starts [Dec. 1(g)]
Status of Aggregate Competitions [Dec. 1(l)]
Status of a Play-off [Dec. 1(h)]
Status of competitions where:
- Artificially surfaced tees are in use [Dec. 1(b)]
- Ball must be lifted from fairway and placed in rough [Dec. 1(d)]
- Bunkers are undergoing renovation [Dec. 1(e)]
- Local Rule allowing relief from a plugged ball ‘through the green’ is in place [Dec.1(c)]
- Use of fairway mats is in operation [Dec.1 (a)]
Use of Electronic Measuring Devices [Dec. 1(k)]
Qualifying Scores. See Scores
Reduction Only [Def.]

Applicability in abandoned competition [Clause 18.7]
Determined by CSS calculation [Clause 18.3]
Effect on CSS [Clause 18.6
Not permissible to declare in advance [Def.]
Obligation of Player to report [Clause 8.10 Note 2]
Reduction only competitions [Clause 17.1 shaded box]
Records
Club responsibility to retain handicap records and scorecards [Clause 6.11]
Computer software requirement [App. H 5 (a)]
Specimen Player Handicap Record, example [App. I]
Reporting Scores
Consequences of failure to report all Qualifying Scores returned away [Clause 8.10 Note 1]
Player responsibility to report
- Away scores in Qualifying Competitions including No Returns [Clause 8.10]
- Non-Qualifying scores if so directed [Clause 8.12]
- Away scores returned in abandoned competitions [Clauses 17.1(b), 18.7]
Responsibilities
Of the Affiliated Club [Clause 6]
Of the Handicap Committee [Clause 7]
Of the player [Clause 8]
Resolution of Ties [App. N]
Rights and Responsibilities

Of the Area Authority [Clause 5]
Of the Council of National Golf Unions (CONGU®) [Clause 3]
Of the Union [Clause 4]
121
Score Cards
Obligation of players to return incomplete cards [Clause 7.3, Dec.2(c)]
Requirement to retain competition score cards [Clause 6.11]
Scores
Away scores to be returned by player to Home Club as soon as practicable [Clause 8.10]
Correction of Disqualified Scores [App. P]
Qualifying Scores [Def., Clause 17, Dec.2(a), Dec.2(e)]
Requirement by Handicap Committee to record as soon as practicable [Clause 7.7(b)]
Scores not acceptable as Qualifying Scores [Clause 17.2]
Scores returned from outside jurisdiction of CONGU® [Dec. 2(e)]
Scores to be recorded in Player Handicap Record in chronological order [Clause 7.7(b)]
Small Fields [Clauses 18.4, 18.5, App.B]
Status of scores in Non-Qualifying Competitions [Clause 17.3]
Status of scores returned in a Play-off [App. F Note 4]
Summary of Scores Table – player information [App. I]
Single CSS Adjustment [Def.] [App. B] [App. O]
Small Fields
Competition Scratch Score (CSS) [Clauses 18.4, 18.5] [App. B]
Competition Scratch Score (CSS) Table B [App. B]
When the number of competitors in Categories 1,2,3 and 4 is fewer than 10 [Clauses 18.4] [App.B]
When the number of competitors in Categories 1,2,3 and 4 is fewer than 5 [Clauses 18.5] [App.B]
Stableford / Nett Double Bogey Adjustment

Adjustment is for handicap purposes only [Clause 19.2]
Calculating adjustment [App. C]
Example of application of adjustment [Clause 19.1/1 shaded box]
Purpose of adjustment [Clause 19 introductory shaded box]
Requirement to make adjustment to all stroke play Qualifying Scores [Clause 19.1]
Standard Scratch Score (SSS) [Def.]

Abandoned competition – CSS regarded as equal to the SSS [Clause 18.7]
Accurate course measurement essential [Clause 11]
Allocation – responsibility of the Union [Clause 9.2]
Application for assessment or re-assessment [Clause 12.1, 12.2]
Change in playing length – possible requirement to re-assess [Clauses 6.7, 12.2]
Changes to a Measured Course – effect on SSS [Clause 13]
Distance points in re-assessment of SSS [Dec. 7(b)]
Effect of temporary length changes on SSS [Dec. 7(a)]
Exemptions in allocation of SSS [Clause 9.6 shaded box]
Factors that affect playing difficulty [Clause 9 shaded box]
Minimum number of holes for SSS allocation [Clause 9.5]
Systems for assessment of [Clause 9.3]
Temporary / provisional SSS [Clauses 4.2(b), 9.4]
Status of Handicap
Altering the status of a handicap [Clause 26.3, 26.4, 26.5]
Competition Handicap [Clause 25.1]
Requirement of computer software to identify players [App. H 5(f)]
Restrictions related to status of handicap [Clause 25.2]
Status of Handicap [Clause 25]
Stipulation of minimum number of scores by Union [Clause 25.1]
122
Stroke Index
Handicap strokes in Play-off taken in accordance with Stroke Index [App. F Note 4]
Plus handicaps – strokes conceded to the course [Dec.6 (a)]
Recommendation for separate stroke indices for Stroke Play and Stableford [App.G]
Recommendations for Stroke Index allocation [App.G]
Use in Nine-Hole Qualifying Competitions [Clause 22.4 and shaded box]
Supplementary Scores [Clause 21]

At an away club [Clause 21.12, 21.13]
Competition Scratch Score (CSS) is not calculated [Clause 21.7]
Number of Supplementary Scores limited in each year [Clause 21.4]
Signify intention prior to commencement of play [Clause 21.6]
Suspension and Loss of Handicap [Clause 24]

Another club cannot allot a handicap during period of player’s suspension [Clause 24.9]
Circumstances leading to suspension [Clause 24.1, 8.10 Note 1]
Disciplinary procedure and notification [Clause 24.1]
Disciplinary proceedings initiated and directed by Home Club [Clause 24.2]
Player cannot use CONGU® Handicap during suspension for competition purposes [Clause 24.8]
Regaining a handicap following suspension [Clause 26.1, 26.2]
Suspension and loss of handicap [Clause 24]
Suspension of handicap applies at all clubs of which player is a member [Clause 24.6]
Tees / Teeing Ground [Clause 14]

Alternative or temporary tees [Clause 13.1]
Location of Distance Point on teeing ground [Def., Dec. 7(b)]
Placement of tees with respect to Qualifying status [Dec. 7(a)]
Players competing from different sets of tees [App. O]
Recommended colours for tee markers [Clause 14]
Temporary or alternative tees [Clause 13.1]
Temporary Greens, Tees [Clause 13.1]
Two and Three Letter Identifiers [App. I]

Codes used in the Handicap Record [App. I]
Union [Def. Clause 4]

Authority for allotment of Category 1 handicaps [Clause 16.3(f)]
Conduct an annual audit of players with handicap of +1[1] or better [Clause 4.1(i)]
Duty to ensure Affiliated Clubs discharge their responsibilities [Clause 1]
Produce a list of competitions deemed to be Qualifying [Clause 4.1(g)]
Responsible for the allocation of Standard Scratch Scores [Clause 9.2]
Settle any dispute referred [Clause 4.1(f)]
123

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ppendix

Amended 1st December 2018 – Details on Page 10

Cover photograph – Fairhaven Golf Club

The Composition of the Council of National Golf Unions Limited (‘CONGU’)

Board Members (2017):

Chairman: Bob Carrick

Secretary: Fiona Hastie

PART ONE INTRODUCTION

PART TWO RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

3 Rights and Responsibilities of the Council of National Golf Unions 21

9 Standard Scratch Score 32

PART FOUR HANDICAPPING

PART FIVE APPENDICES

A Golf Course Measurement 64

I Player Handicap Information 83

PART SIX DECISIONS

Index to Decisions 102

HOW TO USE THE MANUAL

Know the Definitions

Understand the Words

must / shall / directs = instruction / responsibility

Directions and Delegations

Guidance on the system operation

PRINCIPAL CHANGES INTRODUCED IN THE 2016 REVISION

PRINCIPAL CHANGES INTRODUCED IN THE 2016 REVISION - Continued

Changes introduced for 2018

• Definitions: Add Buffer Zones for 9-hole competitions for completeness

Amendments to the Manual

10th January 2018

• Clarification on treatment of Multi-Tee events - sections 18.9 – 18.12 (Page 42)

14th March 2018

1st August 2018

19th September 2018

• Responsibilities of the Club, Responsibilities of the Player: Amended to include the

1st December 2018

• Rules of Golf update 2019

o References to Conditions of Competition changed to Terms of Competition throughout

Alternate Day Competition

Central Database of Handicaps (‘CDH’)

Central Database of Handicaps ID Number (‘CDH ID Number’)

Competition Play Conditions

Competition Scratch Score (CSS)

Continuous Handicap Review

Designated Nine-Hole Course

Exceptional Scoring Reduction (ESR)

General Play Adjustment

Non Qualifying Competition

Single CSS Adjustment

Standard Scratch Score (SSS)

RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

3. Rights and Responsibilities of the Council of National Golf Unions

3. COUNCIL OF NATIONAL GOLF UNIONS LIMITED

4. RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE UNION

Purpose of Audit As Required By Clause 4.1(i)

4.5 The Union has some discretionary powers.

5. RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE AREA AUTHORITY

The Area Authority

6. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE AFFILIATED CLUB

6.8/1 Terms of Competition

Players’ responsibilities are contained in the Rules of Golf