From GAP Championships to non-competitive events, we’ve got the numbers that tell the tale of birdies, bogeys and everything in between. Here’s an in-depth look at the 2023 GAP season.
Total Active Members:
GAP’s vibrant golf community boasted an impressive 109,576 active members throughout the 2023 season. These were not just numbers on a roster; they represented a diverse group of GAP family members. Championship-caliber players, weekend warriors, men and women were sprinkled across Member Club fairways far and wide throughout the season. Handicapping data gathered during the season supports 18,970 female participants and 90,606 male.
Total Rounds Posted:
A staggering 2,240,603 rounds were posted at GAP facilities during the posting season, which lasted from April 1 to Nov. 14.
Average Handicap Index:
The heartbeat of any handicap season is the average handicap index. For 2023, the magic number was 17.0. Not just a statistic, it’s a testament to the collective skill, dedication and sportsmanship of the GAP community. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or navigating your way through a higher handicap, everyone played a crucial role in shaping the dynamic landscape of the season.
GAP Championships & USGA Qualifiers:
Now for a look at GAP’s competitive stage, featuring a total of 106 events that brought together 9,510 players. Think of it as the grand stage where golfing dreams are chased, and championships are won. It’s not just about playing golf, it’s about teeing up against the best, battling it out and earning your stripes in the GAP Region.
Member Play Days:
A total of 34 events saw 2,767 players hitting the links, showcasing the camaraderie and friendly competition that make golf more than just a game. It’s about community, course access, shared love for the sport and the joy of a well-played round with friends. Included in these metrics is GAP’s second edition of the Architect Series. Participants traversed courses designed by Donald Ross, highlighting his influence on golf in the GAP Region. A total of 352 players enjoyed this year’s five-event, circuit-style format.
Winter Series:
As the temperature dropped, competition didn’t freeze. Nine events warmed up the winter with 661 players braving the chill. It’s a testament to the die-hard golfers who don’t let a bit of frosty weather keep them off the fairway. Winter Series is all about defying the elements and keeping the golf spirit alive, no matter the conditions.
So there you have it – a season packed with 106 championships, nine Winter Series events, 29 Member Play Days, and five Architect Series rounds. The season wasn’t just about handicaps and scores, it was a celebration of the shared love for the game that unites us all. Here’s to the 106,576 members, the 2,240,603 rounds and the countless memories created on the fairways of GAP facilities. Let’s raise a virtual toast to another fantastic year of golf in the books.
GAP
Celebrating Amateur Golf since 1897, GAP, also known as the Golf Association of Philadelphia, is the oldest regional or state golf association in the United States. It serves as the principal ruling body of amateur golf in its region. The organization’s 345 Member Clubs and 110,000 individual members are spread across Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey and Maryland. The GAP’s mission is to promote, preserve and protect the game of golf.
