I've played in a few opens where guys have been claiming 12 or so and clearly play to about 4. They come along, clean up and then aren't seen again until the next big event. It could be that they are big event players but I have my doubts.
I'll be honest, i really don't worry about beating my partners etc - im normally locked in a battle with myself to either be consistant or better my last score.
The lower the better for me.
I don't know any other amateur sport where people effectively accuse the majority of people who beat them as being a cheat.
Are there any other amateur sports that have a handicap system?