
Black Duck Course
Clovelly Golf Club
About this course
Black Duck at Clovelly Golf Club occupies rugged terrain on the eastern edge of St. John's, where the North Atlantic climate and exposed topography shape the golfing experience. Graham Cooke designed the course to work with Newfoundland's natural landscape, routing holes across rolling ground with rock outcroppings, native grasses, and vegetation typical of the island's coastal environment. The setting provides views across the surrounding countryside and, from elevated points, glimpses toward the ocean that defines this region's character. The layout reflects Cooke's approach to strategic design, with fairways that follow the land's contours and green complexes that reward thoughtful approach play. Wind is a frequent factor, as it is throughout Newfoundland, and the course's exposure means conditions can shift quickly. The design incorporates natural features rather than imposing heavily manufactured elements, giving the course a links-influenced feel despite its inland routing. Clovelly Golf Club serves the St. John's golfing community and visitors exploring Newfoundland's courses. The club maintains a welcoming atmosphere typical of regional Canadian golf clubs, where the focus remains on the game and the distinctive landscape. Black Duck represents one of the province's notable modern designs, offering a test shaped by both Cooke's routing decisions and the unforgiving environment that characterizes golf at this latitude.
Quick facts
- Location
- St. John's, Newfoundland, CA
- Access
- Public
- Year built
- 1997
- Designer
- Graham Cooke
- Holes
- 18
- Par
- 62
- Length
- 3,716 yards
- Difficulty
- 63.1/101
Getting there
The journey to Clovelly Golf Club begins at St. John's International Airport, the easternmost commercial gateway in North America, positioned just fifteen minutes northwest of the city center. From there, a brief drive west along the Trans-Canada Highway transitions into the rolling, windswept terrain characteristic of Newfoundland's Avalon Peninsula, where the landscape opens into a patchwork of coastal barrens and tucked valleys. The final approach to Clovelly reveals a quietly distinguished property set against the rugged beauty of the island's interior - a fitting arrival at one of Atlantic Canada's most storied and enduring golf sanctuaries.

FAQ
Common questions about Black Duck at Clovelly Golf Club
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Black Duck was designed by Graham Cooke.
Yes. Black Duck at Clovelly Golf Club is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at Black Duck is 62.
Black Duck plays 3,716 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Black Duck is 101.
Black Duck is a 18-hole course.
