Construction is in progress on nine new holes at Fox Harb’r Resort in Nova Scotia, part of a plan by Doug Carrick and Tom McBroom to create two distinct 18-hole courses at the resort.
This feature was originally published by Golf Course Architecture magazine.
Carrick says: “Working together, we decided that rather than just building a new course, we would instead reimagine nine of the existing holes and combine them with nine new holes, all in a links style, to create a true ocean course. Construction began in September 2022, and we hope to have it completed by fall 2023.
“Our next phase will be a separate ‘Vineyard’ course – again, rethinking the existing back nine and combining it with nine new holes. The style is going to be different from what is at Fox Harb’r now. It’s a big vision and very exciting.”
McBroom says the current Fox Harb’r course is a parkland style layout near the ocean.
“It has the kind of bunkering you might find on an inland course,” he said. “It’s dramatic and very visual. The new design will take more advantage of the conditions by the sea. We intend to make use of grass hollows, and smaller bunkers in a more traditional links style. It will feature the rumbles and rolls of the land, and green contours that hug the surface of the ground. It will be refined and well maintained with fairways that roll and fall into the bunkers.”
Carrick added: “We will be looking to create alternative routes and multiple tees so that people can play a longer or shorter yardage. The course will have width so that the course is enjoyable and friendly for the average golfer but still offer risk and reward strategies for experienced players.”
Wind will also be a factor in the new design.
“We will need to take the ocean breeze into consideration, it can blow the ball around and wreak havoc with the way people play,” said McBroom. “We need the width to ensure everyone has a fun day.”
“Our goal is to expand on our existing course to create the finest golf destination in Canada,” said Steven Joyce, CEO and chairman of Fox Harb’r. “We have the land, the ocean and the passion. With that in mind, we conducted an international search for architects who could see the potential of our spectacular location.”
McBroom added: “Both Doug and I are excited about this incredible opportunity. We intend to make Fox Harb’r a landmark golf experience in North America.”
