History

The USGA adopted the slope rating system in 1987. Prior to the slope system the course rating system was a par based system. The problem with the old system was a portability issue. Player’s handicaps established at their own clubs were not easily transferable to other clubs. The handicap established at your home course was either too high or too low when competing at another club.

In 1971, Southern California Golf Association’s own William Wehnes developed the first obstacle rating procedure. This procedure used plus and minus adjustments for a number of course obstacles. The Southern California Golf Association continued to use this rating method until 1995.

Most of today’s rating system can be attributed to Dean Knuth. He proposed a rating procedure that provided a numerical rating of ten characteristics for each hole. These ratings along with the weighted factors for each characteristic provided an adjustment to the distance rating of the course. It was the basis of this system that was used for the present USGA Course Rating System.

In 1998, the USGA established an Executive Committee which included golf association staff and volunteers interested in the policies of the USGA Course Rating System. This committee conducts national course rating calibration seminars for all associations and foreign countries licensed to use the system. The committee also meets annually to discuss modifications to the system.