Grand Rapids Reporter

Ferris State University will host the 48th annual Ray Helsing Bulldog Invitational this Saturday, September 9, at Katke Golf Course in Big Rapids. The event features both men's and women's collegiate cross country races, as well as high school competitions.

The women's collegiate 5,000-meter race is scheduled to begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by the men's 8,000-meter event at approximately 10 a.m. High school races will also take place, with the boys' 5,000 meters starting at 10:45 a.m. and the girls' race commencing at 11:15 a.m. Admission is free for all attendees.

In addition to Ferris State's participation, other conference and regional teams are expected to compete in the collegiate races alongside unattached runners. Local high school teams will join in the prep races.

The invitational was renamed in honor of former coach Ray Helsing in 2010. Helsing led Ferris State's cross country and track programs from 1968-82 and was inducted into the Bulldog Athletics Hall of Fame in 2001. During his tenure, he coached more All-Americans than any other FSU coach, producing 20 All-Americans across cross country and track events.

This year marks the invitational's return after its cancellation in 2020 due to COVID-19. The event has been held annually since its inception in various forms since 1976. The Katke Golf Course has previously hosted significant events like the GLIAC Men's and Women's Cross Country Championships and NCAA-II Regional Championships.

Katke Golf Course is an important part of Ferris State's campus infrastructure, supported by contributions from Marvin L. Katke and his wife. It serves as the venue for home Bulldog cross country events as well as men's and women's golf competitions.

Jared Kelsh leads Ferris State's men's and women's cross country teams into this season’s first competition on their home course. Under Kelsh’s guidance, now entering his ninth year as head coach, both teams have shown strong performances on national levels over recent years.