Handicap Information
What is a handicap?
A handicap is a numerical measure of a player's ability. A specific formula is used to compute a handicap index by factoring in a player's score, tees used and the difficulty of the course played.
Why obtain a USGA handicap index?
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 measureable means of tracking improvement, and allows score adjustments to even the playing field when playing with golfers of different skill levels.
Keep in mind: Two basic premises underlie the USGA Handicap System, namely that each player will try to make the best score at every hole in every round, regardless of where the round is played, and that the player will post every acceptable round for peer review.
The EWGA Handicap System, GN21*, gives EWGA members the ability to:
- Post scores
- Access 20,000+ golf course profiles
- Track personal game statistics
- Print a handicap card
- View scoring history
- Attest scores for other members
- Communicate with other members, and more
When should I get a handicap?
All EWGA members have the opportunity to obtain an official USGA Handicap Index through the EWGA Handicap System, GN21 – also referred to as GLMS - at no additional cost.
If you are just learning the game of golf and spend the majority of time taking lessons or practicing, it may be too early to get a handicap. Every member who is playing 9 or 18 holes and is playing well enough to keep score is encouraged to obtain a handicap index through GN21.
How do I get a handicap?
The EWGA handicap service GN21, powered by GolfNet, is a full featured system that enables all members to obtain an official USGA handicap index. In order to use this service you must first activate your GN21 account. You then must enter a minimum of 5 scores to establish your handicap.
How do I activate the GN21 system?
- Go to www.ewga.com and login to the members area by clicking on MEMBER LOGIN at the top of this page
- Enter your email address and password to login. If this is your first visit to the members area, your password will be Password1. This can be changed later. (Once you have put in your email address and password, if you put a check in the box "Remember me" you won't have to enter the information again.)
- Click on HANDICAP in the left-hand column and you will be automatically directed to your GN21 account. If you get a second login screen when you click on the handicap tool bar send an email to handicap@myewga.com to have your password reset
- If you have trouble with activation or other concerns, please contact:
- members@myewga.com for password troubles
- handicap@myewga.com for handicap concerns
Activating your GN21 Account
How do I post a score on GLMS?
For members already maintaining a handicap or for those ready to start posting scores, click the link below for instructions on how to post scores to GN21.
Posting a score on GN21
For additional information:
EWGA GN21 System www.ewga.com or email handicap@myewga.com
EWGA NYC Handicap Chair info@ewganyc.org
USGA Handicap System www.usga.org.
Downloadable PDF of Handicap Information
* Please note the GN21 system also provides a Handicap Trend. The trend is an unofficial estimate of a handicap which represents un-reviewed scores. The "L" that appears after your trend stands for Local Handicap and is required to be there per USGA. It is only on the trend and does not affect your index.
