Mixed Matchplay

Question
QUESTION: Hi
I am due to play a matchplay competition on Thursday (I am a female).  My handicap is 34 and my opponent's handicap is 22 (a male).  Normally when I play matchplay against another women if there was a 12 shot differential I would get shots on index 1 to 12.  In this instance the indices on the women's scorecard are different than the men's.  Is there a ruling for this?  How do we play this?  Any ideas would be welcome.  Many thanks Loreto

ANSWER: Hi Loreto:

Without looking up anything to get an official ruling, I would tell you to just take your handicaps and figure each against the courses' rating system.  You are a 34 and your shots will fall according to the women's system.  He is a 22 and his would fall according to the men's system (if indeed they are different).  But the best thing to do is to just talk to the Head Golf Professional at the club where your match is.  He/She can clarify.  Good luck in your match.  

Eddie Kilthau
PGA Member

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: On the course we are playing the ratings are different for men and women. There is an additional issue.  For example on the 3rd and 12th holes we both have the same number of shots however it is a Par 4 for men but Par 5 for ladies, how do we decide who wins the hole or does the lady have to play it as a Par 4?

Answer
Loreto:

Great question, and one you'll need to get an answer to.  I, however, do not have the expertise to answer it.  But, you should call your state amateur golf association to ask about the Match Play rules, or ask the Head Golf Professional at the course you'll be playing or call or email the USGA for their advice.  It won't take you long to get an answer.  Your questions are very legimate, especially the last one.  I would start with the State Golf Association where you live, or just simply call the USGA at 908-234-2300 or email them through their website at www.usga.org.  

Eddie Kilthau
PGA Member