New Zealand golf scoring system moves into Britain

The computer system that records the scores of New Zealand golfers is now being used in England, Ireland and Wales.

DotGolf is the operator of New Zealand golf scores and last month the business was appointed as the official world handicap system software and services provider to the national golf unions of England, Ireland and Wales.

DotGolf also launched mobile applications and world handicap system website portals for the three countries.

DotGolf was established in New Zealand more than 20 years ago. The company created the world’s first centralised golf handicapping system and these days is acknowledged as a worldwide market leader in golf handicapping and management software.

New Zealand Golf chief executive Dean Murphy was proud of DotGolf's growing reach.

“Our expansion into the Great Britain and Ireland markets has been an ambition of ours for some time and we are really pleased to partner with the home unions of Ireland, England and Wales,'' Murphy said.

``We have a focus on developing a technology ecosystem that not only enables national golfing unions to lead the game forward but also provides world leading tools and services for golf clubs and golfers.”

Golf Ireland chief executive Mark Kennelly said: "It has been a real pleasure working with the team at DotGolf in delivering Golf Ireland's world handicap system platform and new website (www.golfireland.ie).

``DotGolf delivered on time, within budget and with a nothing-is-too-much-trouble attitude. Early feedback from our affiliate clubs is very positive and we look forward to forging a lasting partnership with DotGolf for the benefit of the game of golf in Ireland.”

England Golf’s Richard Flint added: "We are delighted to be working with DotGolf as our chosen technology partner to support the delivery of the world handicap system platform across England, Ireland and Wales.

``DotGolf has a proven track record in understanding and implementing handicap systems across the golfing landscape, which provides real value and insight as part of the roll out of our new platform later this year.”

“The world handicap system (WHS) provides an exciting opportunity to provide all golfers with a consistent measure of their playing ability and will enable as many golfers as possible to obtain and maintain a handicap index.

``The new WHS platform across England, Ireland & Wales will provide a consistent and enhanced experience for golfers, golf clubs and other stakeholders, and we are very excited by this opportunity to modernise and enhance the sport.”

Wales Golf chief executive Richard Dixon expressed similar sentiments.

``DotGolf’s work in New Zealand during the last decade has seen them create a technological ecosystem which has been hugely beneficial to the administration of the game of golf. Wales Golf is excited to be working with DotGolf on the creation of the WHS platform, whilst also exploring future opportunities the partnership can provide for our member clubs”.

Matt Smith, general manager of DotGolf, believes the business is well placed for further expansion.

“Expanding internationally has always been a dream of ours,'' Smith said.

``The introduction of the world handicapping system in 2020 presented a perfect opportunity, as golfing unions worldwide began reviewing their internal platforms and systems.

``Our experience in running golf handicapping systems, along with the backing and longstanding relationship with New Zealand Golf, proved to be a winning combination in forming new partnerships with England, Ireland and Wales.

``We have a very strong and experienced team, now based in New Zealand and England. Our goal is to continue to help other unions throughout the world who may be looking to enhance and modernise their software systems and add further value to their organisation