Golf Glossary
Definition: Scratch Golfer
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Scratch Golfer
In general, when people talk about a scratch golfer, they are referring to a golfer who shoots par or better.
The USGA, however, has a more formal interpretation of the term, with different definitions for male and female golfers.
- Male scratch golfer. A male scratch golfer is a player who can play to a course handicap of zero on any and all rated golf courses. A male scratch golfer, for rating purposes, can hit tee shots an average of 250 yards and can reach a 470-yard hole in two shots at sea level.
- Female scratch golfer. A female scratch golfer is a player who can play to a Course Handicap of zero on any and all rated golf courses. A female scratch golfer, for rating purposes, can hit tee shots an average of 210 yards and can reach a 400-yard hole in two shots at sea level.