Crested Butte Ball Bash returns for more softball action on town fields

MV in the house

As if four nights of softball a week isn’t enough, the Crested Butte Parks and Recreation Department continues to feed the local softball frenzy with the 12th Annual Crested Butte Ball Bash on Saturday and Sunday, August 10-11.

Players and teams of all abilities are still wanted and rumor has that Ryan Baldwin is in the process of resurrecting the PooFest team for the Ball Bash this year. Teams and sponsors have until Thursday, August 1 at 5 p.m. to get in on the Ball Bash. Registration and information can be found online at www.crestedbutterec.com.
The coed softball tournament is more than just about softball though. It’s also a major fundraiser for the Tommy Ruben Villanueva Sports and Recreation Fund and the Crested Butte Parks and Recreation Scholarship Fund, both of which help provide funds for youth athletics in Crested Butte.
Furthermore, it provides an opportunity for players who typically battle against each other in the local leagues to play on the same team and take on teams from out of town.
In past years, teams from as far away as California have made the trip to partake in the two-day tournament. Last year, Telluride made a showing and brought with them power hitter and former Crested Butte resident Farah Keanaaina, but it was local squad the Dark Stars that took the title. A team of the Villanueva family and friends was awarded the coveted Golden Plunger.
Two weeks prior to the tournament, five local teams were signed up with Crested Butte Parks and Recreation Program director Lauren Alkire awaiting responses from Telluride, Gunnison and Montrose.
Games for the Ball Bash will be held at Tommy V Field all day, both days. If sign-up blows up, then additional games will be played at Gothic Field.
The Ball Bash will also include the annual Home Run Derby Saturday evening at Tommy V Field. It’s a showcase of power for both men and women. Last year, Grafton Singer tore Tommy V Field a new one to win the men’s title with Keanaaina taking the women’s title.