What is Slope? The posted Slope of a course is a relatively new concept. The USGA found in the 1980’s, they could determine, through collected handicap data, the relative difficulty of a course for the low handicapper versus the difficulty for a higher handicap golfer. For example, a course with several forced carries over water, or other hazards, elevated greens that require a higher ball flight over greenside bunkers, plus the severity of the bunkering around Distance With courses stretching in excess of 7,000 yards, distance is one of the most important factors in choosing which tees are right for you. There are many formulas to help decide which tee to choose, but an easy one to remember is to multiply the distance you normally carry your 5 iron by 36. Example: If you carry your 5 iron 100 yards X 36 = 3,600 yard course If you carry your 5 iron 150 yards X 36 = 5,400 yard course If you carry your 5 iron 200 yards X 36 = 7,200 yard course the course, will have a greater impact on the scorecard of an average golfer than on that of a scratch golfer. Slope is thus that difference of difficulty for a low handicap golfer versus a high handicap one. Why is this important? On courses that you are not familiar it is especially important to understand slope and course rating to help choose which set of tee boxes is right for you. Also checking the overall course distance is important, as well. Ohio Golf Journal
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