‘Ray Day Scramble’ at UND’s Ray Richards Golf Course set for Aug. 9, honors rich legacy

Prizes for scramble winners include a $150 Golf Center gift card and free golf at Ray Richards and Minawaka Golf Course in Crookston

UND’s Ray Richards Golf Course will host the Ray Day Scramble on Monday, Aug. 9, at the course. The scramble honors the legacy of Ray Richards, who donated the land and funds for the golf course in the late 1960s.

Players who register for the pairs event receive a round of golf, cart seat and one mulligan for $30 per player ($15 for members). Call 701.777.4340 or stop by the clubhouse to enter. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by a 6 p.m. shotgun start. Nine-holes are free for all UND students, faculty and staff (ID required) the entire day preceding the Scramble. Reservations are necessary.

Prizes for scramble winners include a $150 Golf Center gift card and free golf at Ray Richards and Minawaka Golf Course in Crookston, Minn.

A 1906 UND graduate who went on to become a petroleum engineer in Tulsa, Okla., Richards wanted to help golf flourish at the University. His interest was piqued when he visited with then President George Starcher, who had fond memories of relieving stress during his student days by playing low-cost golf at the University of Illinois.

He agreed to donate part of his family’s dairy and grain farm to UND to develop a course in 1962. The course was dedicated in 1968, and catered to students, faculty and staff. Today, it’s enjoyed equally by members of the UND community and the public.

Nod to history

Key figures in getting the course up and running were Robert Bruce Harris, course designer from Chicago; George Starcher, UND President; and Len Mari, the athletic director who oversaw construction.

“I am sure our present and future UND students and staff will be grateful to Mr. Richards for his interest in his alma mater and his generosity,” Marti said at the 1968 dedication. “It has given us an opportunity to provide not only a fine, but increasingly essential recreation facility for the entire University family.”

“When I was a boy, my father told me many times that should take advantage of the University located at our back door,” Richards once said. “I am proud of the University’s record and of its many outstanding graduates. North Dakota gave me a home in my youth and a start in life. I trust the golf course will become a valuable asset to the physical education program at UND.”

Upon his death in 1972, Richards left funds to continue development of the course. Today, it has become one of region’s top 9-hole layouts. It’s become a regional destination spot known for its updated equipment, challenging holes, creative promotions and well-kept greens and fairways.

“We are grateful for the Richards family and their continued support. Ray Day gives us the opportunity to express our gratitude, and share some history about the course as well,” said Kyle Myers, Ray Richards Golf Course general manager.

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