Golf Canada requires a Member Club, which uses the Golf Canada Handicap System, to have a formal Handicap Committee. The Niakwa Handicap Committee is comprised of the Club Captain (chair), the S&C Committee Chair, the Past Club Captain and the Head Professional. The Committee is required, by Golf Canada, to send a Notice to Members at the start of each season. Issues of importance for 2024:
1. Entering Handicap Scores
In 2023, there were over 30,000 rounds played at Niakwa. Out of these rounds, only about half the scores were entered into the handicap system. Yes, some of these rounds were from outside tourneys, guest play, etc.… but we can do much better!! Every golfer, regardless of ability, should have an established handicap. Establishing a handicap will allow you to keep track of where you stand with your game at any given moment.
In 2024, Niakwa members will need to have an official Golf Canada handicap to be eligible to win prizes in any “flighted” event. Examples would be the Men’s/Ladies Days, Monthly Medal, Club Championship, and any season long events such as the Bissett, Two Person Best Ball and Ringer Board.
All scores should be entered into the Golf Canada Handicap System. Scores can be entered online at http://kiosk.rcganetwork.org/Default.aspx or through the Niakwa website. You can also download the Golf Canada app to your phones. If you are having trouble entering your scores, please contact the Pro Shop and they will help you enter your score.
2. Winter Scores Played Away From Niakwa
All away scores from games played during your winter vacation must be entered into the Handicap System. The Pro Shop will be happy to assist members entering away scores in the Handicap System.
3. Local Rules
The local rules for 2024 will be the same as 2023. These local rules can be found on the scorecards
- Out of Bounds: Defined by white stakes or fence post at ground level. Inside the Driving Range is out of bounds as defined by the white stakes
- Ground Under Repair may be marked by white paint of signage
- Flower Beds and Newly Plated Trees are NO Play Areas and relief must be taken. Flower Beds are defined as cultivated beds containing flowers or shrubbery. Newly planted trees are defined by surrounding wood chips
- Penalty Areas are defined by red lines or red stakes
- Irrigation control boxes and the driving range fence are defined as immovable obstructions. Relief is available under Rule 16.1
- Local Rule E-5. If a player’s ball has not been found or is virtually certain to be out of bounds, the player may take relief for two a two stroke penalty by dropping the original ball of replacement in the relief area
4. Temporary Local Rule
Due to the condition of some of the fairways, we will be implementing a temporary rule that allows you to “roll your ball” with your club head up to 1 club length, no nearer to the hole. This rule applies only to balls that are on the fairway of the hole you are playing. This rule will be in effect until further notice.
For more information or any questions that you may have, please contact the Pro shop or any member of the Handicap Committee.
Sincerely,
Niakwa Handicap Committee
Bill Bench, Club Captain (Handicap Committee Chair)
Andrew Maslyk, Social and Competition Chair
Rob Sproule, Past Club Captain
Terry Reilly, Head Professional