If you have never had a handicap

If you can play 18 holes and score more or less 3 over par (or better) at each hole you are ready to get your first handicap.

In order to get your handicap you need to play 18 holes 3 times, with a MARKER to keep you score. This can be someone who currently has a handicap, or someone who has had one previously and need not be the same person each time.

Before going out make sure that the course is set up to its full length i.e. there are no temporary tees or greens and that the course is your HOME CLUB. You can submit handicap cards by playing the full 18 holes of the course or by playing either the front or back nine twice this counts as 18 holes for handicapping purposes and each 9 holes should be played on separate days.

The following information must be on each card:-

• Your NAME ( the PLAYER)

• The DATE on which the score was marked

• The SIGNATURE of an eligible marker (to say the score is correct)

• YOUR SIGNATURE (to say you agree that the score is correct)

Put each card in the Handicap Secretary's drawer.

Your score will be adjusted so that any score of more than 3 over par for a hole will be adjusted to 3 over par. Your handicap will be calculated for you and will be related to the best score of the cards that  you hand in, unless the Handicap Committee has reason to consider that a lower handicap is more appropriate to your ability.

GOOD LUCK and remember to put your own special mark on your ball (so you are sure it's yours when you find it) and take a RULE BOOK with you!

If you have previously held a handicap

Your new handicap will depend on how long it is since you held the handicap. If it is six months or less, then your previous handicap will be reinstated. If it is more than six months, then you should submit cards for 54 holes as explained above, and the Handicap Committee will give due and full consideration to the handicap last held.