Lowering Your Handicap
Although there are a considerable number of governing bodies that rule over handicapping systems, the fact is that obtaining and official handicap is a rite of passage for many golfers, and it will open up many courses that you could otherwise not play on. The reason that a handicap system even exists is simply to create a level playing field for golfers who have different levels of playing ability. When you submit scorecards that record your performances, your handicap can be adjusted to show changes in skill, but hopefully improvement.
A common dream shared among many golfers is simply to play like the pros and earn a zero handicap. Obviously, even for the pros that win championships it takes a great deal of effort and commitment to become that skilled. There are several factors than can easily affect a golfer’s handicap.
One of the easiest to change is being familiar with the specific golf course that you are playing so that you can practice and bring your handicap down. Sure conditions can change, but you are more likely to play better on a course that you’re familiar and comfortable with.
Another technique that players often use is to simply have a great golfer as their partner. Competition can often bring out the best in players when they rise to the level of play that they are being challenged at and their handicap scores show. Many players understand that they play best when under pressure, or at the very least, when they are pushed by a friend, or some other form of competition.