golfshake handicap card in portugal
Hi - I am off to the Lisbon area in Portugal in a few months time with some golfing buddies (we run an informal golf society and try to have at least one big trip a year). Does anybody know whether they are likely to accept a golfshake handicap certificate there?
I have played golf for over twenty years but as a young parent I just dont get the time to make it worthwhile joining a proper club and getting the handicap down to what it should be (quite a few of us are in the same boat). Anyway this is why the golfshake handicap appeals - I used to be a member many years ago but cant see myself getting value for money out of it at the moment....
Any advice much appreciated
Thanks - Nick
Reply : Tue 26th Jul 2011 22:41
In my experience in Spain, Portugal and Turkey, very few clubs give more than a glance at handicap certificates. Without wanting to stereotype, you can't imagine that a fair number of Germans (OK and a number of Brits as well) can play to whatever it says on any certificate they produce.
Reply : Tue 26th Jul 2011 22:53
I'd suggest emailing and asking?? Even if you point them in the direction of this site so that they know its not some 2 bit made up handicap.
Better to be safe than sorry.
Reply : Wed 27th Jul 2011 00:05
I've played all over England and a few times in Portugal and never, not once, have I been asked to prove my handicap*. With the current financial climate in Portugal the only proof you'll need is the cash I reckon.
And James made a good point, when you see some of the duffers over there you'll all of a sudden feel like a pro - just pray you don't get stuck behind them.
* Once, at the Belfry, I saw the starter politely suggest that a 4 ball may be better off going to the Derby course rather than play the PGA after watching them all attempt to tee off. He was very good about it..