Maybe a simpler solution might have been to try to generalize what the handicap differential between the two systems is on average and adjust handicaps accordingly when international play is involved. I would guess (with no analytical backup) that a 20% increase in US handicaps might be required. Given the fact that most play for anyone is not international, and that golfers are wedded to their own national system based on their style of play, this might have been a better result, and it may be where we go eventually.
[size=78%]You nailed it right there.[/size]
and where did that well reasoned conclusion come from?
an open discussion which yes involves negativity towards the system they have adopted which is doomed to fail due to all the current and proposed adjustmenst that each country/governing body makes for their unique culture.
I normally think that Occam's Razor is overly simplistic, but relative to handicapping, simple is best.
I'm in full agreement with the gentlemen above. Unfortunately, as a fairly regular Buda participant, my pleas for simple, fair adjustments are summarily dismissed. Not even the regular conversion of the index to handicap is normally entertained. As a mid-single digit handicapper, I estimate my handicap to be at least two strokes too low to compete fairly, more if the differential is greater than six. But we are playing "fun", not big money, so it is unimportant.
As to the comment about why the USGA does not allow scores to be posted when playing alone, I have it from a very high source that is was done as a concession to the R & A to get to a global system. It is not policed widely and I doubt that it makes much of a difference in substance.
I am intrigued with the adjustable course rating process. Our winter golf in north Texas is significantly more difficult than much of the rest of the year as typically reflected in our handicaps. Mechanically, I just don't know how it will work. Maybe the Chinese can help us with some AI, ubiquitous cameras, chips in balls and virtual processing of many variables as we're playing. Keep it simple?