McConnell Golf Honors the Legacy of Former Junior Scholar
McConnell Golf, The Magazine: Fall/Winter 2024
In May of 2024, the world of golf was deeply affected by the passing of former McConnell Golf Junior Scholar, Grayson Murray. Friends from near and far gathered in the Raleigh community to mourn the loss of this exceptional golfer and person. During his short life, Grayson touched many people and left a lasting impression on the McConnell Golf family.
Grayson—a member of McConnell Golf’s inaugural class of junior scholars—was instrumental in shaping the program’s success. A native of Raleigh, North Carolina, and a graduate of Leesville Road High School, his journey in golf was nothing short of remarkable. Just two years after receiving the McConnell Golf scholarship, Grayson made history as the second youngest player to make the cut in a Web.com Tour event at the REX Hospital Open, held at The Country Club at Wakefield Plantation. His talent and determination earned him a PGA TOUR card in 2016, marking the beginning of an impressive professional career.
Throughout his journey, Grayson built deep relationships with members and staff at Raleigh Country Club and The Country Club at Wakefield Plantation. These bonds provided him with unwavering support, both on and off the course, for over 15 years.
Grayson’s professional achievements are a testament to his dedication to the sport. He recorded seven top-25 PGA TOUR finishes in 2017 and 2018, including a victory at the 2017 Barbasol Championship. In May 2023, he captured the Korn Ferry Tour’s AdventHealth Championship and secured two top-10 PGA TOUR finishes. His triumphs in three consecutive Callaway Junior World Championships (2006-08) are further testament to his exceptional talent. Most recently, in January 2024, Grayson achieved his second PGA TOUR win with a thrilling playoff victory at the Sony Open in Hawaii.
Grayson’s legacy extends beyond his achievements on the golf course. He inspired countless junior golfers to pursue their dreams, and his contributions to the McConnell Golf program will forever be cherished. Grayson’s impact on the McConnell Golf family and the broader golf community will never be forgotten, and his memory will continue to inspire all who knew him.
The Grayson Murray Foundation was recently established to honor Grayson’s legacy and support mental health awareness, addiction recovery, and youth golf initiatives. Learn more here.
