Questions, Comments & Video Tutorials

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1. How do I establish an RCGA Handicap Factor?
You must be a member of the GAO/RCGA in order to be issued an official GAO/RCGA Handicap Factor. You are automatically a member if you fall under one of the following three categories:

You need a minimum of five (5) valid scores to Establish a Handicap Factor.

2. How is my Handicap Calculated?
Your handicap is calculated by a Slope/Factor formula that was developed by the USGA/RCGA. Click here to view how a Handicap is Calculated. You may also wish to try our Handicap Calculator.

3. Can I post all my scores from home over the Internet?
At this time, posting every score via the Internet is permitted by the RCGA; the governing bodies for golf in Canada. RCGA Network users may post their scores via the web. Click here to view our Online Handicap, Score Posting and Performance Report pages.

4. Does the GAO offer a Handicap Software program, so I can track my own Handicap?
The GAO does not have any software available for individual members. It is only offered to our member clubs (including Clubs Without Real Estate), individuals who want to track their Handicap may do so in our Public Player Program.

5. What scores are acceptable for posting purposes?
Nearly all scores are acceptable because of the basic premise of the Handicap System; "every player will try his/her best at every hole, in every round regardless of where the round was played." And that all scores are made under the Principals of the Rules of Golf. Assuming this the following are acceptable scores:

6. What is the "Active Handicap Season?"
The Active Handicap Season is a date set out by the Provincial governing body, whereby scores may be posted for handicap purposes. In Ontario, the GAO has determined the Active Season shall be April 15 to October 31. The reason we have an Active Season is that Course Ratings reflect "in season" playing conditions when most rounds are played. Also refer to Handicap Article 2 for additional information.

7. What should a player do if he/she does not finish a hole or is conceded a stroke?
If a player does not finish a hole or is conceded a stroke then, he shall record his most likely score. Most likely score is the number of strokes already taken, plus in the player's best judgement, the number of strokes needed to complete the hole from that point more than half the time. The most likely score should have an "X" preceding the number. For example, player A is just off the green in 2 strokes, and his partner just holed out for a 2; therefore, player A decides to pick up. What should player A record on the scorecard? Player A determines he will most likely chip up and two putt; therefore, player A will record an X-5 on the card. (2, already taken, + 3 to complete the hole). Player A does not automatically put down his ESC maximum. First, he determines his most likely score and then after the round checks to see if the most likely score is above his ESC limit. For further information on most likely score please refer to Section 4-1 of the RCGA Handicap System manual.

8. How do I convert my Handicap Factor?
You can convert your Factor by using our Handicap Calculator or you can view/download the appropriate Slope Conversion Chart (also known as Course Handicap Table) from our website or you can also refer to the appropriate Slope Conversion Chart at the club you are playing that day (located at the pro-shop or locker room).

9. Who is the Certified Handicap Official at my club?
Golf Association of Ontario members are encouraged to learn more about handicapping and/or course rating. We undertake exhaustive measures each year to train and educate potential and current officials. Click here to view a list of Certified Handicap Officials in alphabetical order by GAO member club.

10. How do I become a Certified Handicap Official?
The RCGA have requested that by 2005 each member club have at least one certified handicap official. Over the next few years the RCGA, along with the GAO, are attempting to reach this objective by conducting several Handicap Seminars. These seminars are a more in-depth look into Handicapping and Course Rating and will give attendees a thorough knowledge of the RCGA Handicap and Course Rating system. The GAO will be conducting fifteen Handicap seminars in 2004. These Handicap seminars are beneficial to Club members, Handicap Committee members, Golf Professionals, Superintendents, General Managers, and others interested in learning more about Handicapping in general.

If you have any other comments or questions about Handicapping, please email our Handicap/Course Rating department at: craig_loughry@gao.ca or you may call us at 905-852-1101.