What have the initial reactions to the World Handicap System been?

Golf Monthly considers early reports and feedback from golfers across the country following the November implementation of the World Handicap System

- Fergus Bisset

Over recent months, we’ve written extensively about the workings and implementation of the World Handicap System (WHS), which came into effect last month. Moving from a method based on aggregate to one based on average scoring has possibly been the most significant ever change to how golf handicaps are calculated in this country.

Through our various channels, we’ve been in a good position to gauge initial reactions to the roll-out of the WHS and assess concerns about the new system. Even at this early stage, we have some evidence of how things have changed and might change in future.

Going up or coming down?

From a poll conducted on the Golf Monthly forum, 49 per cent of respondents said their Handicap Index had come down with the implementation of the WHS and only 20 per cent had gone up.

In the main, it seems lower handicappers who perform consistently have come down, as have those with a few recent good rounds in their last 20. But others who have endured poor seasons have seen their Handicap Index jump considerably from the previous system.

Whether individuals are dissatisfied or accepting of their new number, the WHS does seem to deliver an index that’s more reflective of current play for those who put scores into the system on a frequent basis.

Is the average golfer going to play ball?