FAR HILLS, N.J. (January, 28, 2009) — A majority of the country is now observing an inactive season for handicap posting purposes. As a result, many players will choose to migrate south to follow the more accommodating golfing conditions. For those players who maintain a Handicap Index at more than one golf club, the player must ensure that the same Handicap Index is maintained at both clubs. (Section 6-5 of “The USGA Handicap System” manual.)

To do this, the player must do either of the following:

1) Register as a multi-member with the authorized golf association or the computation service so that all scores at each club will enter into the player’s scoring record; or

2) Return all scores to all clubs in person, or, if the club allows via Internet, facsimile or surface mail with the appropriate USGA Course Rating and Slope Rating.

Following either one of these two procedures will result in the same Handicap Index at both clubs at the start of the next active season. Because of the difference in revision schedules for the club in the south, observing an active season, and the club in the north, observing an inactive season, the Handicap Index may not be the same from one revision to the next. For a handicap competition, the committee in charge of the competition may require that the player use the lowest Handicap Index.  (See Decision 6-5/2)

“The USGA Handicap System” manual is available to view online at http://www.usga.org/playing/handicaps/manual/manual.html