Top of the Morning, July 27, 2024

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This sort of thing only happens in caring and accountable communities like Gibson City, where a golf course left for dead has emerged as Ford County’s field of dreams.

Rescued by Bernadette and Darrin Ray and run by volunteers, the pay-by-donation Railside Golf Course — all 12 holes — is back on its feet, both in terms of action (Tuesday’s men’s league is up to 22 teams) and aesthetics (“it looks pretty good,” Lonny Hixson said).

The comeback started a year after Railside closed in ’16, the Rays purchasing enough property from previous shareholders to keep it at 12 holes. It continued when Hixson and a group of about 10 volunteers committed to maintaining a course that — when it opened in ’93 — was a sight to see.

The Rays provide equipment, Hixson and Co. provide tender loving care.

“It’s a lot of work but we enjoy doing it,” said Hixson, a 1986 Gibson City High grad who mows the course on weekends. “It’s nice because you don’t have to drive out of town to play golf.”

Golfers can walk, bring their own cart or use one of the several available near No. 1. Without a clubhouse or cashier, Railside relies on a donation box for revenue. For the most part, it works.

A shared space, Railside’s reawakening has been a blessing for walkers, joggers and anglers, too.

“I’m glad we still have it,” said HIxson, speaking for many in a community of 3,400. “That we do says a lot about (Gibson City).”