To determine your handicap if you bogey every hole, we need to understand the calculation process. The USGA Handicap System takes into account a golfer’s potential ability, as reflected by their best scores, rather than their average performance.
First, let’s clarify what a bogey is in golf. A bogey is a score of one over par on a hole. For example, if a hole is a par 4, a bogey would be a score of 5.
To calculate your handicap, you need to submit a minimum of five scores to your golf club or association. These scores are used to calculate your Handicap Index, which represents your potential ability. The Handicap Index is based on the best scores you have achieved in relation to the course rating and slope rating of the golf courses you played.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the bogey golfer’s characteristics. A bogey golfer, according to the USGA, has a Handicap Index ranging from 17.5 to 22.4. This means they typically shoot scores that are above par, with occasional scores close to par.
If you are consistently bogeying every hole, it suggests that your abilities align with the characteristics of a bogey golfer. However, to accurately determine your Handicap Index, you would still need to submit your scores and follow the calculation process.
It’s important to note that a bogey golfer’s average tee shot distance is around 200 yards. This means they may not hit the ball as far as more skilled golfers. Additionally, a bogey golfer can reach a 370-yard hole in two shots, indicating they have a decent level of consistency and accuracy in their game.
When calculating your Handicap Index, the course rating and slope rating play a significant role. The course rating reflects the expected score a scratch golfer would achieve, while the slope rating indicates the relative difficulty of the course for a bogey golfer compared to a scratch golfer.
The bogey golfer’s characteristics, such as their average tee shot distance and ability to reach a 370-yard hole in two shots, would be considered when determining the slope rating. The Bogey Yardage Rating and Bogey Obstacle Rating, which make up the slope rating, would be adjusted accordingly for a bogey golfer.
If you consistently bogey every hole, it suggests that you align with the characteristics of a bogey golfer. However, to accurately determine your Handicap Index, you would need to submit your scores and follow the calculation process, taking into account the course rating and slope rating specific to your golf courses.