The system quantifies the relative difficulty of a golf course for players of varying abilities. It combines the Course Rating, which assesses the difficulty for a scratch golfer, with the Slope Rating, which determines the relative difficulty for other players. The resultant figure provides a standardized measure allowing golfers to compare the challenge presented by different courses. For example, a course with a higher value indicates it will play relatively more difficult for a bogey golfer than a course with a lower value.
This metric provides a universal standard for handicapping and equitable competition. Historically, golf course difficulty was subject to individual perception. This standardized system allows golfers of all skill levels to compete fairly, factoring in the specific challenges of each course. Furthermore, it assists golf associations in maintaining handicap integrity and ensuring fair play across diverse playing fields.
