News

Two 18-Hole Courses

Overlooking Scenic Views of Smithville Lake

The Course Rating represents the expected score for a“ scratch” golfer( someone with a Handicap Index of 0.0) under normal playing conditions. For example, if a particular golf course has a Course Rating of 73.0 for the back tees, that rating would suggest that a“ scratch” golfer would, on average, be expected to shoot a score of 73 from that tee set. Remember, each tee set has its own Course Rating. Some courses could have up to five teeing grounds( back to forward tees).

The Slope Rating, on the other hand, measures the relative difficulty of a golf course for a“ bogey” golfer( typically a player with a Handicap Index around 20.0 for men, 24.0 for women) compared to a“ scratch”( zero handicap) golfer. Slope Ratings range from 55 to 155, with 113 considered average. The higher the Slope Rating, the more difficult the course is for the bogey golfer.

Ironhorse Course Details Tee Par Length Rating Slope Black 72 6,889 yards 74 143

Gold 72 5,325 yards 66.8 117 Red 72 4,745 yards 68.9 122

Hodge Park Golf Course Details( 70 / 72 means with combo tees)

Tee Par Length Rating Slope Blue 70 / 72 6,050 yards 69.5 120 White 70 / 72 5,642 yards 67.8 114 Red 70 / 72 4,764 yards 63.7 112

Here are two examples of Course Rating and Slope. Ironhorse has a high degree of difficulty for the average golfer in both course rating and course slope than would Hodge Park.

From the back tees, Ironhorse has a Slope of 143 versus Hodge Park with a Slope of 120. Meaning, the average golfer could find Ironhorse more difficult than Hodge Park.

Together, these numbers are used to calculate your“ Course Handicap,” which levels the playing field by adjusting your handicap based on the difficulty of the course you’ re playing. This ensures fair competition with lower handicap golfers, no matter where you tee it up.

In short, the Course Rating tells you how tough a course is for elite players, while the Slope Rating shows how much tougher it gets for the rest of us average golfers. These ratings can also guide you in determining which teeing ground( black, blue, white, red, etc.) would be the best choice for your ability and enjoyment, thereby giving you more chances for par. Check the scorecard before your play to select the best tee for your game.

Want The Correct Clubs For Your Game & Score Low?

Experience a Custom Clubfitting at our Outdoor Studio, Featuring Flightscope X3 Launch Monitor.

Shop Paradise Pointe Discount Golf New Clubs, Equipment, Apparel, Shoes and more. Large Selection of Name Brands at Affordable Prices!

Shop Paradise Pointe Discount Golf New Clubs, Equipment, Apparel, Shoes and more.

Large Selection of Name Brands at Affordable Prices!

At Your Fingertips Get

● GPS

● Tee Times

● Alerts

● Deals

● Scorekeeping

● and More

LOOK!

● ●

Learn more about Central Links Golf and view upcoming tournament schedules for adults and juniors at www. centrallinksgolf. org.

TeeTimesMagazine. com TEE TIMES GOLF GUIDE JUNE 2026 9