Net Double Bogey

Net Double Bogey - POSTER

The current procedure for limiting unusually high scores on any hole, Equitable Stroke Control, will change to Net Double Bogey. Net Double Bogey will be used when a player’s actual score or Most Likely Score (* see notation below) exceeds a maximum number derived using the following formula:

Net Double Bogey = Par + 2 + / - Handicap strokes received or given on a hole

Note that the minus symbol above and “strokes given” would apply to those rare folks with plus handicaps. The rest of us need to think of this new adjustment simply as “Double Bogey Plus”, because it’s easier to leave “Net” out of it! This terminology also is consistent with another adjustment already in use whenever we don’t play a hole or play a hole other than under the Rules of Golf, called “Par Plus”.

So, here’s the best way to teach yourself this new Rule:

Double Bogey Plus = Par + 2 + any handicap strokes you’re entitled to on the hole

Your Course Handicap determines how many handicap strokes you receive and each hole has a Stroke Allocation number so you know the holes where you receive strokes. A player with a handicap of 9 receives one handicap stroke on holes with a stroke allocation of 1-9. 

The best way to make sure you are correctly applying Net Double Bogey is to post your score hole-by-hole on the GHIN app or clubhouse computer. The GHIN software will automatically adjust any holes necessary! 

* Most Likely Score is used whenever you start but don’t finish a hole, no matter the reason. MLS is the number of strokes you’ve already taken, plus the number of strokes it would take you to finish the hole most of the time, based on your best judgment about your own game.

WHS - Net Double Bogey