PC or Handicap?...

PC OR NOT PC THAT IS THE QUESTION....

In Singapore, the land of rules and honey, too play on a golf course you need a certificate to prove you are worthy...

In my land this is not a requirement, but in my land there are more golf courses than smart businessmen obviously... because the PC is used more as a selling point to get customers than to really want to train those customers correctly...

The PC (or Proficiency Certificate) as it is known is a bane to golfers in this region.

It is also a “bargaining chip” for the Instructors looking for a bit of leverage when it comes to attracting customers.

There are two types of PC, the Beginner PC and the SGA (Singapore Golf Association) recognised PC.

The first is usually issued at the end of the package of beginner lessons, it is accepted by the “beginner courses” in Singapore:- They are…

                NSRCC SAFRA par 3

                Mandai Executive

                Jurong Executive

                Green Fairways

                Royal Tanglin

It is not however, recognised by any “big” or 18 hole Club in Singapore. And I know of 2 of the 5 above listed Courses that do not check for PC beginner or otherwise. (I also know this is changing soon, and a PC will be a requirement at Mandai as they are getting a new operator).

The second is a SGA recognised and maintained PC, for this one the beginner course is usually not enough as there is classroom time and on course checks to achieve before this is issued, plus there is a fee to pay to the SGA to maintain, it is not cheap and I doubt is “given” away at the end of a series of beginner lessons.       

This is why I do not bother with the PC, you do a Beginner Course, and you get a beginner PC, you can go to the short courses and train, then you do an Intermediate course and you go straight for your Handicap, no confusion, no scams, no muss no fuss...

As to the “bargaining chip” I mentioned, it is frustrating that there are Instructors (and I use the term very loosely) in Singapore... (Please check your coaches credentials and playing ability before you pay them) that promise a PC at the end of the beginner lessons. If I am asked, I reply “yes you will get a beginner pc”. Will it be recognised at Marina Bay, the answer is no.

But the other Instructor will tell you yes, and of course on completion, it is not, but it is too late by then.

Is the Handicap recognised? Absolutely, recognised all over the World...

Do your research before you pay for golf lessons, one of the questions should be “where will my PC be recognised”?

There are many other questions you should ask, but sadly $$$$$$are the driving force, and doubly sadly you get what you pay for...

If you want a genuine card and genuine lessons...   click here for information..