“Whilst the New Worldwide Handicapping System is due to be launched in 2020 the Boards of the UK Golf Federation and OGRO have concerns they would like to express regarding a proposed vote planned on November 17th. This concern is also expressed by EGCOA who represent over 850 golf courses throughout Europe.
“Yes! It is good to see that steps are being taken to improve handicap accuracy across the UK and Europe however its impact can and will have a long-term effect of the game and participation. We understand from several sources that in terms of licensing, content, database ownership, etc. the proposed changes will bind the members of the UK Golf Federation and its members and their customers to whatever the outcome will be. We have to ask ourselves if this is the right approach for the proprietary golf facilities who provide golf to over 2 million consumers and if the WHS could through its far-reaching changes be detrimental to growing golf participation.
“In reality the WHS should not be as restrictive as the current CONGU handicap system is being only available to club members but should support the growth of golf participation by encouraging the 2 million plus golfers who currently play without an official handicap, the opportunity to have an official handicap. This would give them the opportunity to become involved in the basics of golf participation, by having a handicap. Ultimately this will lead to increased membership and participation.
“Also the question we would like to raise is do the key associations, who will be key holders for the WHS, understand the position the commercial golf course owners have in offering “open access to golf”. The proposed WHS will bind the members of the federations and their members to whatever the outcome will be for many years – so let’s make sure we get it right now!
“The UK Golf Federation wants more discussion with the key stake holders on the way forward for the WHS, this involving the proprietary golf facilities in the UK and it seems Europe.
“For further discussion on the Worldwide Handicapping System implementation contact as below.
Contact: –
Doug Poole – CEO
UK Golf Federation
Rural Innovation Centre
Avenue H, Stoneleigh Park
CV8 2LG
Doug Poole: doug.pooleukgf@gmail.com