Frequently Asked Questions

Please check our Membership Guide for additional information.  If you cannot locate the answer to your question, please contact us.

What does it cost to join GTGP?

Membership cost for the 2010 season remains the same as in our first five seasons.  The annual membership fee is $100.  This fee now includes a USGA handicap through the Golf Association of Philadelphia (GAP).  This cost also provides you playing privileges for all events, except for the Mason-Dixon Cup, for which you must qualify.  Your membership package also includes a USGA rule book and a small gift.

How much do events cost?

Costs vary depending on the course, time of year, day of the week, and other factors.  The average event cost is about $75.  Unless otherwise noted, GTGP charges the standard course greens fee with a surcharge of $12 to cover club expenses.  A portion ($5) of this surcharge goes directly to the prize pool for that event, with the remainder going toward the seasonal budget including the end of year banquet and Mason-Dixon Cup.

How do I register for events?

Registration details for each event are posted several weeks before the event on our web site.  Once details are posted, you can register for an event using the simple online registration form in the Members' Area.  Payment may be made electronically (online via PayPal), by check, or by cash.  Deadlines for registration vary by event, but range from about one week to two weeks prior to the day of the event.

What formats are GTGP events?

Most events are individual net, however, additional formats are occasionally used.  See the schedule for a list of the formats associated with each event, and the event formats page for a detailed description of each format.

What prizes can I win for each event?

At each event, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers win credit toward the registration fee for a future GTGP event.  The value of the credit depends on the size of the field for the event.  Optional closest-to-the-pin and skins pools are also available at each event.

Is there a minimum number of events that I have to play?

No.  You may play in as many or as few events as you like.  Of course, playing in more events increases your potential for earning season championship points (GTGP $) and qualifying for the Mason-Dixon Cup team.  Members must play in ten events to qualify for the Mason-Dixon Cup team and other season-long awards.

How are season long awards determined?

Players earn points (GTGP $) based on their finish each week. These points are compiled in a season-long money list that is used to determine season awards and decide qualifiers for the Mason-Dixon Cup team. Point distribution for each event is modeled after the PGA Tour's own formula for money distribution. Each event has a different "purse", with majors having the highest. Click here for more details.

Do I have to have a USGA handicap?

All members must have a USGA handicap to earn prizes in events.  We will provide you with an official USGA handicap (through the Golf Association of Philadelphia) as part of your membership fee.  If you do not currently have a USGA handicap prior to joining GTGP, we will ask you for a score history to help establish your handicap.

How do I keep track of my handicap?

We post all scores from GTGP events automatically.  To be consistent with USGA handicapping policy, members must post all scores from play outside of GTGP, whether those scores are from tournaments or just casual play.  All scores must be posted online through the GHIN system.

How good do I have to be?

Our golfers range from low to high handicappers, and include both men and women.  There is no specific requirement to join, and all events are net (using handicaps) to encourage fair competition.  However, we do adhere to the maximum handicap index limits suggested by the USGA (36.4 for men and 40.4 for women).

What tees do you play?

Men have the option of playing two sets of tees for each event, and handicaps are adjusted according to USGA procedures to account for the set of tees played.  Though it varies by course, one set of tees will typically be in the 6400 to 6800 yard range, and the second set of tees will typically be in the 6000 to 6400 yard range.  A senior tee may also be available for members age 65 or older, when the second set of tees is significantly longer than 6000 yards and an alternative set of tees is available.  Women may play the standard women's tees for the course or the next set of tees back from the standard women's tees.

Are there any special rules?

We adhere to the USGA rules of golf for all events.  Gimmes and mulligans are not permitted.  We also have a few local club rules.

Do you monitor pace of play?

Yes, we strongly feel that a round of golf should be completed in a reasonable amount of time.  Members who repeatedly engage in slow play will be warned, given late tee times, and if necessary, penalized.

Can I bring a guest to a GTGP event?

Absolutely!  We encourage all members to bring guests to GTGP events.  However, guests may play in a maximum of two events prior to joining the club and are not eligible to win GTGP$ or event prizes, with the exception of optional closest-to-the-pin and skins pools.

How is GTGP organized?

GTGP is a non-profit organization, with a volunteer Board of Directors managing the events and club activities. 

Is there a deadline to join?

No.  We accept membership applications at any time.