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Handicap Score Posting Season in the IGA Region to End Soon
Fall weather has arrived and with it comes the common handicapping question, “When is the last day I can post scores made in the IGA region for handicap purposes this season?” The answer: Wednesday, October 31st.
We are hopeful to have some mild weather (like last year!) this upcoming “inactive season” (November – March) with many opportunities to play locally, but scores made on courses within the IGA region during the inactive season are not acceptable for posting. Think of them as “practice” scores.
The key question a golfer should ask is, “Was the golf course I just played in an active season for score posting purposes?” If the answer is yes, post the score. If the answer is no, do not post the score. If you are unsure about the status of an area please contact the IGA.
And while we wait during winter months for the IGA region to turn active for score posting on April 1st, hopefully you get a chance to play some golf in warm weather climates and have an acceptable score or two to post. If the handicap score posting station at your home club is unplugged during the winter you can post acceptable scores online at iowagolf.org or access the IGA and GHIN apps. Yes, there are apps for that!
Another common question we receive is, “Why is there an inactive season?”
It is up to state and regional golf associations to determine if an inactive season is needed in their region and if so, when that inactive season will be. The IGA has deemed the inactive season for the IGA region as November 1 – March 31st.
An inactive season is necessary for many northern state and regional golf associations because the conditions of the course change dramatically with the season and the golf courses do not play in accordance with the USGA Course and Slope Ratings which are issued based on mid-summer playing conditions.
The USGA requires that all Handicap Indexes be revised (updated) on the 1st and 15th of each month, regardless of seasons. If you are fortunate to be playing golf in the warm weather of Florida, Texas, Arizona or any other area that is in-season during the IGA’s off-season you must post these scores.
Revising Handicap Indexes on the 1st and 15th of each month accommodates golfers who are posting scores they have made on courses that are active. These golfers don’t have to wait to get their Handicap Index revised. A revision is always right around the corner!
Please contact the Iowa Golf Association if you have any questions with the USGA Handicap System.
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