Handicap difference update

With the suggested change in handicap allowance for singles match play being increased from ¾ to full difference, some players in last year’s competition had asked why we were changing a tried and tested format.  The reason was quite simple, CONGU had decreed that it should be played thus.  We tried to discuss this change and the possible effect it could have on our tournament with the Handicaps Department at CONGU. We highlighted that our tournament was played on a home or away basis,  and that the early rounds during the winter months were frequently played on shortened courses. CONGU were insistent that even so, the results would not be affected by the change in handicap difference.

We therefore decided to involve you, the Clubs, who have played with ¾ difference for the last for the last 18 years. We mailed approximately 3400 men’s and ladies’ secretaries asking for their input.  At close of the consultative period, we had had 114 replies. 75 in favour of returning to ¾ handicap, 33 in favour of full. 6 were not sure, but generally supported CONGU’s premise that either ¾ or full would not favour either player unduly.  As I’m sure you’ll appreciate, with such a small response, we are not able to change the status quo and therefore will continue with full difference for next year.

Tournament Director

Interesting facts 

To learn more about the history of the Mail on Sunday Classic, please click here.