Short courses around the country are reaping the benefits of being eligible for course ratings, allowing golfers to post their scores in the World Handicap System. The World Handicap System, jointly governed by the USGA and the R&A, lowered the minimum length requirement for courses to be rated, making those that measure at least 1,500 yards for 18 holes or 750 yards for nine holes eligible. This change has opened up opportunities for more inclusive participation in the game of golf by allowing golfers on shorter courses to track their progress and establish handicaps.
In Wilmington, North Carolina, both Cape Fear Country Club and Eagle Point Golf Club have embraced the opportunity to have their par-3 courses rated. Cape Fear’s director of golf, Chris Byrd, sees the par-3 course as an essential element for beginner and junior golfers to learn the game before transitioning to the full course. Similarly, Eagle Point’s director of golf and general manager, Billy Anderson, has seen the potential for additional uses for their short course, such as adding nine holes to member-guest events. This trend is not unique to North Carolina, as par-3 and short courses in California are also experiencing similar benefits.
Gena Webb, the general manager at Rancho Carlsbad Golf Course in California, is excited about the prospect of having their course rated for the first time. Previously, the course did not meet the 3,000-yard minimum requirement but now can participate in the handicap program, allowing golfers to post scores and track their statistics in real time. Similarly, snowbirds at Portola Country Club in Palm Desert are pleased that the scores they post during their winter visits will count towards their handicaps when they return to their summer homes.
The decision to rate short courses is part of a broader effort to make the game of golf more inclusive and accessible to a wider range of players. With the growing popularity of the game and the emergence of alternative ways to enjoy it, adjusting course rating parameters to accommodate shorter courses makes perfect sense. This change allows for a more diverse group of players to participate and enjoy the game, ensuring that the sport continues to evolve and attract new participants.
Short courses have become increasingly popular in the golfing community, with approximately half of new course openings since 2014 being shorter-length facilities. These courses are typically walking-only and can be played in an hour or less, making them more accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. Additionally, many elite private clubs and golf resorts have added short courses as amenities to their main courses, offering players a different and enjoyable golfing experience.
The trend of short courses is not limited to recreational facilities; even prestigious clubs like Pine Valley and Augusta National have incorporated short courses into their offerings. Augusta National’s par-3 course and Pine Valley’s 10-hole short course provide players with unique challenges and opportunities to enjoy the game in a more relaxed setting. The development of short courses at renowned clubs and resorts highlights the growing popularity and impact of these facilities on the golfing community.
The success of short courses like The Cradle at Pinehurst Resort further demonstrates the positive impact of rating these courses for handicap purposes. The Cradle, a nine-hole par-3 course, has seen a significant increase in play since it was rated, with players of all skill levels enjoying the unique golfing experience it offers. By allowing players to establish and maintain handicaps on short courses, more golfers, including juniors and seniors, can actively participate in the sport and track their progress over time. This initiative has the potential to shape the future of golf and make the game more enjoyable and accessible for all players.
