Interview with Mark Ruhga

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Chief Operating Officer, Dormie Network
Posted on
July 21, 2022
by
M. James Ward in ,
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
Interview - Mark Ruhga - Dormie

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

 

Background

Mark is a 30-year golf industry veteran and PGA member. He has spent a majority of the last decade in multi-club management roles and been with Dormie Network since June 2017.

 

The Ruhga Story

I fell in love with the game during high school and began working part time at a local club. While pursuing an engineering degree in college, I made the decision to change course and start a career in the golf industry. Working around the game I am so passionate about has been extremely rewarding.

Once I heard about the ownership vision for Dormie Network, I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of. The privilege of working with such an amazing team and the ability to use my past experience to focus on hospitality and creating truly memorable experiences for our members and guests makes each day unique and gratifying.

 

***


What was the genesis for GrayBull in the Nebraska Sandhills?

Dormie Network’s roots in Nebraska led to a keen interest in developing a club in the sandhills region of the state. The centralized location of the property and proximity to the North Platte Regional Airport (22 miles) allows for convenient access to Dormie Network members throughout the country.

On an early visit to the region with ownership, DMK identified the area as ideal for a world class course and we were fortunate to find this particular property.


How large is the overall site?

1,600 Acres for total property.


Are there plans for more than one course at some point?

Not currently.


When will ground be broken and estimated time till opening?

Ground was broken in June 2022 for course construction… currently anticipating opening in Summer 2024.


Has a routing plan been determined -- and if so, the approximate yardage from the championship tees and par for the layout will be what?

Yes, par 72, 7,170 yards from the championship tees.

 


Will access to play only be permitted from those connected to The Dormie Club Network?

GrayBull will be a private Club for Dormie Network members


What was the main determination in selecting David McLay Kidd to be the course architect?

DMK’s design philosophy of playability, hole variety, and memorability is a perfect match for the Dormie Network experience. The characteristics of the site are a tremendous match for his expertise, both aesthetically and based on the natural inputs of the area.


Were other architects interviewed -- and if so, who?

No other architects were interviewed for GrayBull.

David McLay Kidd chosen as architect for the planned GrayBull course in Nebraska

 


Will lodging options be available on-site?

Yes, there will be 15 cottages and a total of 60 bedrooms on site


You've got one work to describe the site -- which would you choose?

Stunning.

***

For more info go to:

www.dormienetwork.com

Images courtesy of the Dormie Network

 

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About M. James Ward

A GWAA and MGWA member, the 66-year-old from the USA has covered golf in all facets since 1980, notably the major championships and other high level events. He has played over 2,000 courses globally and has competed in USGA Championships.

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