Many golfers seem to have a vague idea that T (tournament) scores can carry more weight than regular scores in the calculation of a handicap. They might even have experienced the dreaded “R” next to their Handicap Index, or know someone who has. Harder than actually doing the math involved is explaining to the golfer what the “R” means and why it’s important. Luckily, you can put your calculator away, while also realizing that a reduction is not a ‘scarlet letter’.

• What – This procedure of the USGA Handicap System, known as Section 10-3 “Reduction of Handicap Index Based on Exceptional Tournament Scores” is an alternate, automated calculation of an Index affecting those with T scores in their record in the last 12 months.
   
• ​Why – Since a Handicap Index is meant to be an indicator of potential ability and not averages – the player’s best performance over a span of time – this procedure enhances that likelihood. It’s helpful to remember that a huge part of the Handicap System is data and formulas, and not to take a reduction personally.
   
• How – A Handicap Index is displayed with an “R” (ex: 10.4R) when at least two tournament scores have been posted within the past year that are at least three strokes better than the current Handicap Index based on the most recent twenty scores. At each revision on the 1st and 15th, the system will crunch the numbers and compare a player’s Index with the two best T score differentials (always displayed underneath your scoring record).
  
  The reduction will usually occur when a player has a much better tournament performance – even if it was months ago – in relation to their current Index. The new reduced Index will NOT be a “Tournament Index”, rather, will be an Index that has been moderated in between the two calculations. A reduction amount can be anywhere between 1.0 – 13.7 strokes.
   
• Myth Busting – A reduced Index is not “frozen” at a certain level but can fluctuate up or down depending on current postings or old T scores cycling out of the player’s record. As you start playing better (closer to your T score level), chances are that the reduction will go away on its own!
   
• What’s a player to do? – First of all, take a deep breath and don’t be upset. While it’s true that the Handicap System is a numbers game, it also requires a lot of human intervention. If you wish to appeal to your club Handicap Committee, you can do so. They have all the power. They can increase, decrease, or even remove the “R”.
   
• Did you know? – Committees should NOT over designate T scores, which is a common mistake. Erroneous thinking of “more T scores are better” actually waters down the reduction procedure, preventing the Handicap System from working properly. 

Questions? Contact our Handicapping Department.