Elk Ridge golf course and resort to open for season on Friday

By Jeff D’Andrea

For the first time under new ownership and a new head professional, the Elk Ridge Resort golf courses will open to the public on Friday.

The resort spent most of 2020 in limbo after falling into receivership before being purchased by Routes2SK Inc. in the fall.

Head pro Ryan Wells, who previously worked at Cooke Municipal Golf Course as its assistant professional for eight years, can’t wait to officially open up the course.

“It’s long overdue with what’s happening here in the world. With this place reopening this year, and how well it wintered, everyone here’s excited for opening day,” Wells said. “All the staff is arriving and the bookings are coming in. The buzz has been fantastic. We’re looking forward to kick off the 2020 golf season.”

Elk Ridge has 27-holes available, with three 9-hole courses, Birch Course, Aspen Course, and the Tamarack Course. Wells said they are all in great shape to start the year.

And old head professional Ryan Danberg, who’s now the director of operations for the Elk Ridge Resort, said it looks better than it ever has.

“He’s been here since day one. Danberg told me the other day that he’s never seen the course look this good for opening day,” Wells said. “It’s fantastic. Everyone is quite happy.”

All Saskatchewan Health Authority protocols will be in place for all golfers coming to the course. No walk-ins are allowed, as golfers must have tee-times booked beforehand. All tee times will be 10 minutes apart. The course will also undergo the guidelines of cleaning carts in between uses, and having limited capacity in the pro shop and on the patio.

In addition to the golf course opening up, the Elk Ridge Resort itself will be opening on Friday. The main lodge, which has been fully renovated, will open as will the Wyld Restaurant. The Fredrich Restaurant, which is in the lodge, will open on May 14.