The Steele Index was created as a tool to compare the relative merits of golf courses played by the "average" daily fee golfer. The revised system awards a maximum of 100 points in three categories: conditioning, playability and ambiance. By rating the course in the most objective fashion and then dividing the rated score by the dollar cost, golfers can determine their own "Bang for the Buck". For example: Course "A" is rated at 70 points and costs $70 for a 1/1 ratio. Course "B" rates 80 and costs $100 for a 4/5 ratio. Course "C" rates 60 but costs only $30 for a 2:1 "Bang for the Buck" quotient. Which course is right for you? In the long run, it probably depends on your budget, but the quality of the course may be the most important factor for some players.
| Points are awarded as follows: |
4 points = Excellent
3 points = Good
2 points = Average
1 point = Fair
0 points = Poor
|
Conditioning (40 points possible)
____ TEES (X2): Consider the number of sets, conditioning, elevations, alignment, etc.
____ FAIRWAYS (X2): Well-mowed, sculpted, patterned, divots repaired, contour, etc.
____ GREENS (X2): Condition, speed, consistency, slope, etc.
____ SAND TRAPS (X2): Sand quality, consistency, grooming, placement, etc.
____ ROUGH (X2): Penal quality, maintenance. Complementary or detracting?
Playability (32 points possible)
____ DESIGN (x2): Fairness, routing, utilization of property
____ SCORABILITY (x2): Is good play from appropriate tees well-rewarded?
____ VARIETY (x2): Mixture of doglegs, straightaways, hole lengths, etc.
____ SIGNAGE (x2): Tee monuments, fairway and cart path markers, yardage book.
Ambiance (28 points possible)
____ BEAUTY (x2): Natural setting, landscaping, the overall look and feel of the course.
____ PACE OF PLAY (x2): Well-marshalled? Crowded? Five hours or less anytime?
____ CLUBHOUSE (x2): Staff, dining, pro shop, beverage cart, on-course facilities.
____ PRACTICE FACILITIES (X1): Driving range, short-game area, putting green, lessons
____ TOTAL POINTS
Note: Bonus points may be added for exceptional aspects of a particular criterion.
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