Conquering the Course (and Confusing Your Mates): How to Get a Golf Handicap in England
Ah, the golf handicap. That glorious number that both strokes your ego and simultaneously reminds you that you probably won't be going pro anytime soon. But for many a weekend warrior, that handicap is a badge of honour, a way to settle friendly disputes on the course with a satisfying, "There, see? It wasn't just the dodgy burger that did for your swing!"
So, you're in England and itching to get your hands on this magical number. Well, fret no more, fellow️♀️golfer️♂️, because this guide is about to turn you from a mystery on the green to a certified handicapper.
How To Get A Golf Handicap In England |
Step 1: Embrace the App (or Find a Friend With One)
Gone are the days of dusty filing cabinets and handwritten scorecards (although, for some, that might sound preferable to the perils of modern technology). In England, the way to a handicap is through the wonderful world of apps.
There are two main options:
- MyEG App (via iGolf): This is your one-stop shop for non-club members. Sign up for iGolf, download the app, and you're good to go.
- Club App: If you're a member of a swanky club with a fancy app, this might be your route. Check with your club pro for details.
Pro Tip: Befriend someone with a club app! Sharing is caring, after all (especially when it comes to avoiding app subscription fees).
Tip: Don’t skip the details — they matter.
Step 2: Hit the Links (and Actually Keep Score)
Now comes the fun part (well, hopefully): playing some golf! But here's the catch – these rounds need to be "for handicap purposes". This means grabbing a scorecard marked for handicap and having a designated marker (a fellow golfer who keeps tabs on your score).
Don't even think about trying to sneak in a handicap round with your mates and a fistful of scorecards. The app gods are watching (and geo-location is a thing).
Remember: Honesty is the best policy, especially when it comes to bragging rights later.
Step 3: Submit Those Scores (and Maybe Don't Lie)
Once you've amassed a minimum of 54 holes (a combination of 9 or 18 hole rounds), it's time to submit your scores through the app. The system will then take your best scores (with a little mathematical magic) and voila! You've got yourself a handicap.
QuickTip: Reread for hidden meaning.
Here's the kicker: The more scores you submit, the more accurate your handicap will be. So, keep playing, and don't be shy about those not-so-stellar rounds. In the wise words of Shia LaBeouf (probably), "Just do it!"
FAQ: Frequently Asked Handicapping Headaches
How to choose between the MyEG app and a club app?
MyEG is for non-club members, while club apps are for, well, club members. If you have the option, a club app might be easier (and cheaper), but MyEG gives you flexibility.
How long does it take to get a handicap?
Tip: Read once for flow, once for detail.
It depends on how quickly you can rack up 54 holes of "for handicap" golf.
How do I find a marker?
Ask a friend who also wants a handicap or find a friendly face at the course who might be willing to help.
What if I lose my phone with the MyEG app?
QuickTip: Skim for bold or italicized words.
Contact England Golf – they can help you get back on track.
How do I make my handicap look lower than it actually is?
Don't. It's not cool, and the system will catch up with you eventually. Just embrace your true golfing self (and maybe take some lessons).
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.