WIS Anchor Wins Media HR Derby

Moore with his Derby trophies

COLUMBIA - For the first time ever, the annual Media Home Run Derby went to an extra-round "swing-off" on Tuesday evening. The result looked very familiar, however, as WIS morning anchor Stewart Moore won the title for the second consecutive year.

Moore finished the round strong with 22 points, tying him with ABC Columbia photographer Matt Perron. A five pitch bonus round then followed and Moore had several long shots to keep his Home Run crown.

"It was a blast," Moore said, "I always have a good time at Capital City Stadium. I just hope the competition isn't quite as stiff next year.

In all, 11 members of the Columbia media participated:

Chris Dearing - The State newspaper
Rick Henry - WIS-TV
Tim Hill - ABC Columbia
Hannah Horne - WIS-TV
Justin Kier - WACH
Kevin McCrarey - SC Radio Network
Corey Miller - 1400 The Team Radio
Stewart Moore - WIS-TV
Matt Perron - ABC Columbia
Adam Pinsker - WACH
Bob Shields - WLTX-TV

Contestants pose after the contest.  From L to R: Rick Henry, Corey Miller, Bob Shields, Stewart Moore, Matt Perron, Kevin McCrarey, Chris Dearing, Tim Hill, and Blowfish coach Lee Gronkiewicz

Blowfish manager Lee Gronkiewicz threw the pitches for the Derby.

The Blowfish open their season Thursday night against the Florence Red Wolves at 7:05 pm. Tickets are $6.00 adult /$5.00 Kids, Students & Military with i.d. It's also the first Thirsty Thursday of the 2010 Season, meaning all sodas and beers are only $1.00  from 6-8pm.

For Tickets call 803-254-FISH or log onto:
www.blowfishbaseball.com to buy online and print at home.

The Columbia Blowfish are a member of the Coastal Plain League, the nation's hottest summer collegiate baseball league. Celebrating its 14th season, the Coastal Plain League features 15 teams playing in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. The CPL gives college players the chance to refine their skills with the use of wooden bats. Players are housed with local host families for the summer and past experiences have been very positive for both players and hosts. Furthermore, the CPL has had over 700 alumni drafted and 36 alums make their Major League debut thus far. For more information on the Coastal Plain League, please visit the league Web site at http://www.coastalplain.com .