Establishing a Handicap with the EWGA Golf Club
The purpose of the USGA Handicap System is to make the game of golf more enjoyable by enabling players of differing abilities to compete on an equitable basis.
Having a handicap index allows golfers to participate in more events (those that require a handicap index), have a measurable means of tracking improvement, and allows score adjustments to even the playing field when playing with golfers of different skill levels.
All EWGA members have the opportunity to obtain an official USGA Handicap Index through the EWGA Handicap System (GN21) at no additional cost. Every member who is keeping score is encouraged to obtain a Handicap Index through GN21.
 GHIN Application
Using EWGA’s GN21 Handicap site
Powered by GolfNet, GN21 is a full featured system that enables all members to obtain an official USGA handicap. Some members may wish to carry a handicap provided by GHIN; while the handicap is identical to EWGA’s GN21 system, a GHIN handicap is required for most Washington state tournaments. The EWGA Seattle Chapter offers a GHIN handicap for a fee of $35; see application below.
Are you wondering what all this 'handicap' talk is all about? Read this FAQ for more information.
What is a handicap?
A handicap is a number that represents your skill level and potential scoring ability. Generally speaking, your handicap value is representative of how
you should expect to score in relation to par. It's actually a little more complicated than that because other factors are considered
such as which tees you play from and how difficult the course is. It is also weighted such that it's more representative of what you'd expect to score on a good day rather than on an average day.
For specifics on the handicap system and the actual formula used to determine your handicap, visit usga.org. And don't worry about the math; the computer network handles all
the calculations for you.
Why would I want to maintain a handicap?
Benefits of maintaining a handicap include the ability to compete with golfers of other skills levels on an equitable basis on any course, from any tees. It also provides an objective way
to measure golf skill improvement. An official handicap is required to compete in some our competitive tournament.
Do I need a handicap to join EWGA?
No, but you do need one to participate in any tournaments that are run by the Chapter. This includes the Championship Series.
Are their any requirements for maintaining your handicap with EWGA?
The only requirement for maintaining your handicap with the EWGA is that you are a current member of
the Executive Women's Golf Association.
How much does it cost to maintain a handicap with EWGA?
Handicap service through GN21 System is a part of all levels of membership in EWGA. Handicap service through GHIN
is offered for an additional fee of $35.00.
How do I access and activate my account on the GN21 System?
Click on MEMBER LOGIN at the top of the ewga.com home page - type in your email address and your password. If this is your first time visiting the Member's area your password will be "Password1" - Click on HANDICAP in the left-hand column and you will automatically gain access to your GN21 account
What are my responsibilities in maintaining a handicap?
As with all aspects of golf, the handicap system expects honesty and integrity from its participants. All individuals maintaining an official handicap have the following responsibilities:
- Post every eligible score during the posting season. In the Pacific Northwest, the posting season is from March through November. Please
check with your golf club for specific dates.
- Play all rounds eligible for posting under the USGA Rules of Golf.
- Make an effort to make the best score on each hole of every round played.
When and how do I post my golf scores?
It is best to post scores as soon as possible after the round has been played. Posting scores on EWGA’s GN21 system will be done
exclusively using the internet through EWGA's score posting page.
Posting scores on the GHIN system can be done on the computer at the Pro Shop where the round has been played
or on the Internet at www.ghin.com.
How do I keep track of my handicap?
Log on to the GN21 through EWGA.com.
You can track your handicap there, see the trend, as well as your actual index and scoring history.
Information on keeping track of your handicap can be obtained at www.ghin.com.
What if I still want to keep my handicap through a golf club other then EWGA?
You may maintain multiple handicaps with different services as long at you enter all scores with each service
(i.e. EWGA, GHIN, etc.). The revision schedule for all services is the same. Scores need to be entered in both
services before the revision date deadline to insure that the index for each system is the same.
Will I be eligible for non-EWGA tournaments using my EWGA/GN21 handicap?
At this time, the GN21 handicap will not be accepted by the WNGA or the PNGA for State amateur events.
For other events, check with the organization that is running the tournament to make sure they will accept the
new GLMS handicap provided through the EWGA. While it is a valid USGA handicap, some golf associations and/or clubs may
not be familiar with the EWGA/GN21 system and may not accept it as valid.
How often is my handicap updated?
Handicaps are revised every two weeks during the golfing season which typically runs from March through November.
Why do I have to join a club to get a handicap?
The USGA does not provide handicaps directly to individuals. All handicaps must be maintained through a golf club. If you are a member at a local course, you likely have already paid the necessary
dues to maintain a handicap with that golf club. If not, you may join the EWGA Golf Club to maintain your handicap. By maintaining a handicap through a club rather than individually, there is opportunity
for your peers to review your scores to ensure that integrity of the system is maintained.
I've seen online handicapping services for free. Can I use one of those?
You could, but at this time, your handicap kept through one of those services will not be an official USGA Handicap and you will not be eligible for tournament play.
Where can I find out more about handicaps and the handicap system?
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