FOX 21 News, KQDS-DT

DULUTH - Members and staff agree, the Ridgeview Country Club is a great place to be, and not just for golf.
"What sets apart from other clubs is we're easy to get on times when other courses are busy," said Director of Golf Aaron Anderson.
"It's a great social atmosphere up here, the golf course is great," said member Len Servela.  "We've got great facilities, great pro shop, the service staff is second to none."
It's the golf, however, that members join up for, and the course is set up to give players a challenge.
"We're right around just under 6,000 yards from the white tees," said Anderson.  "Very difficult course for the short length.  Difficult around the greens, a lot of uneven lies in the fairways and roughs here."
Unlike most courses, Ridgeview plays at a Par 70.  That makes it one of the most challenging tracks in the northland.
It's the greens that make Ridgeview so challenging.
"We're known for our greens," said Anderson.  "Our greens are always the best you'll find in the area. Our greens roll well and they're fairly fast in the summer."
"Where the greens crew puts the cups makes every green difficult," said Servela.
With greens like these, approach shots are key.
"If you're going to be over that hole and you hit it long, you're going to have a tough shot back," said Servela.  "You better think about your club selection on the approach to the green."
Ridgeview also offers six Par 3's, among them, the course's signature hole, No. 17.
"It's a pretty hole, over the water and the green is very difficult," said Anderson. "The green is the toughest green on the course.  They do mow it a little bit higher than the others because in the past it's been nearly impossible."
But to play at Ridgeview, you need to be a member.
"It's a very friendly membership, which is why a lot of people have joined here," said Anderson.
"It's a great place to join, I welcome the people to come up here and take a look," added Servela.
Because like they say, membership has it's priviliges.