Muddy Fields Didn’t Damper Spirits at the 8th Annual Jack Hooper Day at the Ballpark & Derby

The weather this spring has been tumultuous, varying from wet to dry and from cold to warm and then back again. As they say, “If you don’t like the weather in Texas, just wait a minute and it will change.” Well, the wet weather of last week caused Turtle Wing Foundation’s Derby committee to regroup as the fields were too wet to be utilized. The good news is that the City of Schulenburg was able to provide the pavilion at Wolter’s Park and most of the festivities continued without a hitch. The Turtle Challenge and the actual hitting portion of the Derby had to be canceled. However, the celebratory opening ceremonies featuring the Year of the Flying Shorthorns started right on time, followed by fun for kids of all ages in the Kid Zone, the Silent Auction, the Turtle Races, food, music and fellowship. This year, since the Homerun Derby itself had to be canceled, a Corn Hole Tournament was added and twenty-four teams added to the day’s entertainment. The grand champion of the Turtle Races was Brady Blahuta’s turtle, winning his heat and then the final championship with the winner of the first ten heats. Beating out a much varied field in the Corn Hole Tournament were Collin and Camden Bosl, who very generously donated their prize back to the foundation. The Turtle Wing board and Derby committee members are thankful to all of those who were sponsors, made donations, volunteered, and came out to support the event after the relocation and restructuring of the day. The success and sustainability of the foundation and it’s very important work depend on the generosity of the community. Turtle Wing in turn is able to continue offering programming in three key areas for families with children with learning challenges:  Early Intervention, Supplemental Services and Community Education and Advocacy. For more information on the foundation and how to become involved or receive services please visit the Turtle Wing Facebook page or call Susie Shank at office at 979-505-5090.

Pictures:  DeeAnn Hooper/TW Founder pictured with Turtle Race winner Brady Blahuta and Corn Hole Tournament Winners Collin & Camden Bosl