Golf: Mulligan Vs. Handicap
Golf is a game is filled with terminology that can be difficult for the amateur player to keep straight. From terms like birdie and bogey, which represent scoring, to terms like slice and hook that describe the kind of shots a player can hit, there are dozens to grasp. Two of these terms, mulligan and handicap, are very different things--but both relate to a golfer's overall ability.
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Mulligan
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A mulligan, in the simplest of terms, means a re-do. In golf, a mulligan is typically taken on the first tee after a golfer's first shot if he is not satisfied with that shot. It is a common misconception that golfers may take mulligans whenever they choose. In unofficial golf games, golfers are sometimes permitted to take one mulligan per nine holes if all players agree to do so.
Handicap
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The term "handicap" refers to a numerical representation of a golfer's overall ability. There is a specific formula to determined a player's handicap, which estimates how many strokes above or below par a player should be able to play. Handicaps are used to determine a net score from the number of strokes played. This allows players of different skill levels to play against each other on a semi-equal playing field. The lower a golfer's handicap, the better a player he or she is.
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Usage in Tournament Play
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According to the official Rules of Golf produced by the United States Golf Association, mulligans are not allowed in official golf tournaments of any kind. Mulligans are generally used during friendly games that are not regulated by the USGA. Some charity tournaments allow their participants to "buy" mulligans and donate the money to charity. Handicaps are also rarely factored into professional golf tournaments, as most professional golfers have zero handicaps.
Mulligan Terminology
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Although mulligans are typically used to remedy a bad first shot, sometimes the mulligan shot can be just as bad. If the second shot is worse than the first shot, it is known as a Finnegan. Some golfers allow for something called a rolling mulligan, which means a golfer can retake a mulligan shot on a subsequent hole if it isn't taken on the first tee.
Handicap Terminology
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The lower a golfer's handicap, the better the golfer. Most professionals are known as scratch golfers because they have a zero handicap. A golfer with a handicap of 18 (one shot per hole) is known as a bogey golfer because he is more likely to play well above the average score.
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References
- Photo Credit golf image by Renato Francia from Fotolia.com
