The 6th Annual Del Ray vs. Old Town Softball Battle is set to take place on Thursday, May 23 at Simpson Field. Can the Del Ray businesses defend their title against Old Town in this annual softball showdown? Mayor Justin Wilson will kick off the event by throwing the first pitch at Eugene Simpson Park at 6 p.m. The game will consist of five innings and will also feature food trucks and ice cream. In a unique twist, the businesses have obtained permission from the city to serve draft beer from Port City Brewing Company during the game.
The Old Town team captain, Trae Lamond, owner of Chadwicks, is confident in his team’s ability to come out on top, despite a 50% chance of rain. Lamond jokingly stated, “We plan to drop more runs on Del Ray than all their taco concepts, craftsman rebuilds, and labradoodles combined.” On the other hand, Del Ray team captain Bill Blackburn is focused on retaining the John Porter Cup for the third consecutive year and is ready for the challenge.
Longtime umpire Dana Lawhorne, Alexandria’s retired sheriff, will not be umpiring this year’s game but will instead be in the broadcast booth. In previous years, Lawhorne has had some memorable interactions with the players, including ejecting Blackburn from the game for questioning a call. Despite the friendly rivalry between the two teams, the focus is on having a fun and competitive game of softball. The John Porter Cup is currently displayed at Aspen on the Avenue in Del Ray, eagerly awaiting the outcome of this year’s battle.
