By Thomas Grant Jr.
Just two weeks ago, over 80 youngsters signed up to participate in the first “Pitch, Hit and Run” competition held by Irmo Little League.
Sponsored by Major League Baseball, the free event puts boys and girls ages seven to 14 through a series of baseball and softball-related exercises. The participants are tested in throwing, hitting, and running 90 yards with the top finishers advancing to the regional tournaments.
From there, an opportunity waits for the fortunate finalists to compete for the national title at the ballpark where Game Two of the World Series takes place in October.
The Irmo Little League competition at Friarsgate produced three qualifiers for the Regional event at Great American Ballpark in Cincinnati.
Earning the trip for softball was seventh-grader Evie Adaline of Chapin. The 12-year-old competed this past Saturday and finished runner-up in the girls 11–12-year-old age group.
Adaline’s father, Greg, said she hopes to compete again in the competition and is now focused on trying out for the Chapin High School varsity softball team.
Also finishing runner-up was Alex Ramirez in the boys 9–10-year-old age group. A third qualifier, Ethan Maxon, was unable to compete in the boys 7-8-year-old age group. However, he will be allowed to compete for a spot in the final should his injury heal in time.
