By Jill Fox
This weekend, the Parkland Little League will be hosting a free Pitch, Hit, and Run competition for the first time.
The official skills competition, presented by Major League Baseball, is designed for children ages 7 to 14.
Parkland Little League President Scott Gordon said it should encourage boys and girls in the community to get out for some fair and fun competition.
A free program, Pitch, Hit, and Run, allows baseball and softball participants the opportunity to advance through three levels of competition, culminating at the MLB World Series.
First, the PITCH portion of the program tests how accurately a competitor can throw strikes to a designated “Strike Zone” target from a designated distance. Any method of underhand/overhand pitching or throwing is accepted. An attempt hit at ANY portion of the target will be deemed a strike.
Secondly, the HIT portion of the program tests a competitor’s ability to hit from a stationary batting tee, along with a tape measure from home plate, toward straight-away centerfield. Hits will be measured for distance and accuracy.
Lastly, there’s the RUN portion, measuring a competitor’s speed in a sprint from the start line, touching third base, and touching home plate. ALL participants will run a total of 120 feet.
Players will be divided into four age divisions: 7/8, 9/10, 11/12, 13/14, and have the chance to advance through three levels of competition, including team championships and finals during the World Series.
Participants should register online and bring a birth certificate with them to the competition on Saturday, July 31, on-field two at Terramar Park, located at 6690 West Hillsboro Blvd in Parkland.
Gordon said players should come during the specific times for their age groups to avoid long wait times.
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