9 February 2012

Dear Sir /Madam,

We have had a number of calls regarding the changes to the Senior Tee section of the latest SAGA handicap manual.

We have provided a further explanation below in the hope that this clears up any misunderstandings or questions regarding this change.

Explanatory notes on the changes in the Handicap Manual regarding the use of Senior Tees, and the recommendation that clubs have Forward Tees rated by their Provincial Union

The SAGA has called on clubs which have a Senior Tee on every hole (or on more than just one or two holes) to rather refer to these as a “Forward Tee” and have these rated by their respective unions, in the same way as the Club Tee and Back Tee are rated.The rating of the Forward Tee will reflect the degree to which it is easier than the next tee behind it.

The recent heavy rains in White River has caused severe damage to the bridges on the course. The bridge between the 9th and 10th holes was washed away and the bridge across the river on the 7th fairway was damaged beyond repair. The bridge at the 5th Hole held up well with only minor damage.

22 December 2011
Handicap Calculation Changes Effective 1st February 2012

Background

The South Africa Golf Association (SAGA) compared the South African handicap calculation to those in use by the other major golfing countries, especially those countries that play similar handicap competitions to South Africa. This investigation resulted in the decision to align South Africa more closely with the USGA and other international Handicap System.