History
In 1951, a group of passionate golfers and community leaders came together with a bold vision: to create a high-quality golfing facility for Edmonton. This dream became a reality with the birth of the Riverside Golf Course, perfectly situated along the scenic North Saskatchewan River. Designed to highlight the natural beauty of its surroundings, the course offered breathtaking views and a layout that embraced the unique terrain, setting the stage for a truly unforgettable golfing experience.
The course opened in 1951 with a 9-hole layout, a $130,000 investment, and a splendid clubhouse, marking a new era for golf in the region and showcasing the power of community dreams and determination. Built on the site of the old Dawson Coal Mine, Riverside boasts a unique character shaped by its history. The dips and undulations on its fairways are the result of settling mine tunnels beneath the surface—a natural process that continues to subtly reshape the course, offering golfers fresh challenges each year, particularly on the greens.
In its early years, Riverside Golf Course quickly became a local favorite. It was so popular that dedicated golfers, affectionately nicknamed the “Riverside Rats,” would line up as early as 2 a.m. on Thursdays to secure a weekend tee time. Some even camped out in sleeping bags, pitching tents to guarantee their spot—a testament to their passion for the game and the course’s undeniable appeal.
These days, snagging a tee time is much easier!! Just head to Move.Learn.Play. to book your spot—no sleeping bags or midnight lineups required. (And don’t worry, no one will know if you’re still in your sleeping bag).
The original Riverside Golf Course members included the following 17 individuals:
George Anderson
Nick Balash
Cliff Beisel
Ed Corrigan
Walter Cummings
Aileen Dent
Barbara Elligott
John Elligott
Mary Leverington
Reg Irving
George Matsuba
Bob Mellors
G. Meyer
Merry Reimer
Norm Seehagen
Felix Stark
Bob Weatherby
Riverside’s Rise to Prominence in the 1950s
In the 1950s, Riverside Golf Course was crowned the #1 public golf course in Canada, marking its golden era. During this time, it became the stage for prestigious tournaments like the Edmonton Amateur, Edmonton Open, Alberta Amateur, and Alberta Open, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier golfing destination. A defining moment came in 1956, when Riverside hosted the inaugural Edmonton Open Golf Tournament. This event didn’t just highlight the club’s organizational prowess—it put Edmonton on the map as a hotspot for competitive golf, drawing attention from players across the country.
Expansion to 18 Holes
In 1953, Riverside Golf Course took a giant leap forward, transforming from a 9-hole layout to a full 18-hole course. This wasn’t just an upgrade—it was a game-changer. The addition of nine new holes brought fresh challenges and variety, creating a more exciting and dynamic experience for golfers of all skill levels.
The expanded layout was thoughtfully designed to showcase the natural beauty of the North Saskatchewan River and the unique terrain shaped by the historic Dawson Coal Mine tunnels beneath the surface. These elements gave the course its signature character, blending strategic play with breathtaking views that kept players coming back for more.
The upgrade was an instant hit. It offered seasoned golfers a tougher test while remaining welcoming and accessible for beginners. In no time, the expanded course became a local favorite, solidifying Riverside’s reputation as a top destination for both recreation and competition.
This expansion marked a new chapter in Riverside’s story, highlighting its commitment to growth and innovation. The 18-hole course didn’t just raise the bar for golf in Edmonton—it put Riverside on the map as a must-visit destination, drawing golfers from across the region and cementing its place in the city’s sporting legacy.
Riverside Senior Men’s Golf Club (Coyotes)
Riverside Senior Men’s Golf Club, known as the Riverside Coyotes, was Founded in 1987 brings together passionate golfers aged 55 and above. United by their love for the game, the Coyotes have built a close-knit community rooted in support, friendship, and camaraderie. Their bond extends beyond the fairways, as they celebrate achievements, stand by one another, and foster an inclusive environment where every member feels valued. For the Coyotes, golf is more than a sport—it’s a shared journey of connection and encouragement.
Riverside Senior Men’s Golf Club Presidents
Joe Rilling (1990)
Don Leverington (2000)
Louis Mafrey (2001 & 2002)
Mike Seal (2003)
Carl Wandler (2004 & 2005)
Jim Dove (2006)
Les Howards (2007 to 2012)
Stu Orr (2013 to 2019)
Rich Bayly (2020 to 2023)
Erik Horne (2024)
Doug Lofstrand (2025)
Don Leverington: A Legacy of Passion and Dedication
Don Leverington was a cornerstone of the Riverside Golf Course community, remaining a dedicated member until his passing in 2010. Renowned for his remarkable skill, Don was celebrated for shooting scores below his age in his later years—a feat that inspired awe among his fellow golfers. Beyond his prowess on the course, Don was deeply involved in the Senior Men’s Club, serving as a Past President and an active committee member. His passion for the sport extended to organizing tournaments and social events, where his leadership and enthusiasm brought members together and strengthened the club’s spirit.
To honor his enduring legacy, the Riverside Senior Men’s Club established the annual Leverington Tournament. This event highlights the club’s commitment to inclusivity and competition, as the top low and high handicap players compete in a playoff to determine the best overall golfer based on the lowest net score. The first champion trophy was awarded in 1987, and the tournament continues to celebrate Don’s contributions to the club and the sport he loved.
Ken Darlington: A Century of Golfing Excellence
Ken Darlington’s story is one of extraordinary achievement and inspiration. In 2017, at the remarkable age of 100, Ken shot a 100 and a 99 in consecutive weeks—a testament to his enduring skill and dedication to the game. What makes this feat even more astonishing is that only .000089% of golfers ever shoot their age, a statistic that underscores Ken’s exceptional talent. Between the ages of 70 and 99, Ken played an incredible 1,615 rounds of golf and shot his age an astounding 338 times.
To honor Ken’s unparalleled legacy, the Riverside Coyotes Senior Men’s Golf Club hosts the Ken Darlington Club Championship. This prestigious two-week tournament, held late in the season, brings together members to compete for trophies and prizes. The event awards Low Gross and runner-up honors, while also recognizing the top three finishers in each handicap bracket. The tournament not only celebrates Ken’s achievements but also embodies the camaraderie and competitive spirit that define the Riverside community.
Past Tournament Winners
A Lasting Legacy: Riverside’s Enduring Impact on Edmonton Golf
For over 70 years, Riverside Golf Course has been a cornerstone of Edmonton’s sports scene, blending history, natural beauty, and a killer golf experience for players of all levels. Set against the stunning North Saskatchewan River Valley, the course delivers epic views and a one-of-a-kind challenge, thanks to its rolling terrain shaped by the historic coal mine tunnels underneath. These hidden pieces of Edmonton’s industrial past add a cool twist, making every round feel like more than just a game—it’s a trip through time.
What makes Riverside stand out is its perfect mix of tradition and accessibility. As one of the city’s top municipal courses, it’s been a go-to spot for generations of golfers, from pros to first-timers just learning the ropes. With its pristine fairways, tricky greens, and wallet-friendly rates, Riverside is a community favorite, offering a welcoming vibe for everyone who steps onto the course.
In a fast-paced world, Riverside Golf Course is a reminder of what really matters: the power of sport, the beauty of nature, and the strength of community. It’s not just a golf course—it’s a legacy, a retreat, and a point of pride for Edmonton. As we celebrate its rich history, we’re stoked for the stories still to come on its fairways. Riverside isn’t just a great course; it’s a place that keeps inspiring and bringing people together, and it’s here to stay for generations