With spring slowly making its way toward Vermont, the start of the golf season is right around the corner. Soon courses across the state will begin to open, practice ranges will fill up, and golfers will be eager to get their first rounds of the year posted.
Before that first tee shot of the season, there are a few simple things every golfer can do now to make sure they’re ready when the active posting season begins. Here are three ways to prepare for the season ahead.
One of the most important steps you can take before the season begins is making sure you have an active GHIN Handicap Index. A handicap index allows golfers of all skill levels to compete fairly and is required to participate in Vermont Golf Association events and many club competitions.
The easiest way to obtain a GHIN number is by joining through your local golf course. Many Vermont clubs offer handicap services as part of their membership programs.
If you are not a member of a golf course, the Vermont Golf Association also offers options through e-clubs. Golfers can establish a handicap through organizations such as Lakeside Golf Club or the Vermont/USGA Golf Club, which allow players to maintain an official handicap without belonging to a traditional club.
Having a GHIN account ensures you can post scores once the season begins and participate fully in competitions throughout the state.
The VGA tournament schedule offers opportunities for golfers of all ages and skill levels to compete across some of Vermont’s best courses.
From championships like the Vermont Amateur and Vermont Mid-Amateur to junior events, senior competitions, and one-day tournaments, the season provides a full calendar of competitive golf.
Taking a few minutes now to review the schedule can help you plan which events you’d like to play and make sure you don’t miss important registration dates.
Even if the courses aren’t open yet, there are still plenty of ways to get ready for the season.
Winter is a great time to:
When the snow melts and the courses open, golfers who have stayed active during the winter months often find it much easier to transition back into form.
The Vermont golf season will be here before we know it. By establishing your handicap, reviewing the tournament schedule, and preparing your game ahead of time, you’ll be ready to make the most of every round once the active posting season begins.
We look forward to seeing you on the course this spring.