"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - 'Old Timers' Fast-pitch Exhibition Game

TAHLEQUAH, OKLAHOMA - The Cherokee Nation is looking for a few “experienced” ballplayers for a wild and crazy men’s 45-and-over fast-pitch exhibition game. Fast-pitch players of a “certain age” can come take part in this very special game for free on Saturday, August 25, at 7 p.m. at the Cherokee Nation Softball Complex on highway 82 south of Tahlequah.

It’s all part of the fun at the 55th Annual Cherokee National Holiday to be held over Labor Day weekend in Tahlequah.

“We have a lot of older ballplayers who played back in the 70’s and 80’s at the Holiday who come out every year and watch the fast-pitch games,” said Denise Honawa, event coordinator, “This gives them a chance to show everybody they’ve still got it!”

Players can register on-site on the day of the game from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the softball fields. Softballs will be provided and as a special reward for playing, t-shirts will be given to the first 30 players to sign up. Players from all tribes are welcome.

The Cherokee National Holiday has been held since 1953 in tribute of the signing of the 1839 Cherokee Constitution. It has grown into one of the largest events in Oklahoma, attracting more than 90,000 visitors from across the world.

This year’s theme is “Common Values, Common Ground,” in commemoration of the 169 years of rich history the Cherokee Nation has in what is now Oklahoma, and the 100th anniversary of Oklahoma’s statehood.

“This theme is a tribute to the partnership that exists between the Cherokee Nation and the great state of Oklahoma.” said Chad Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. “Throughout the years we have worked together to create better and stronger communities all over the state. This year’s theme of ‘Common Values, Common Ground’ reiterates the importance of the continuation of this relationship for the betterment of Cherokee citizens and our Oklahoma neighbors. In our partnerships with the state and community organizations all across Oklahoma we can help to create a better Oklahoma for everyone.”

For more information about the men’s 45-and-over fastpitch exhibition game, please contact Denise Honawa, by phone: 918-453 – 5248 or by e-mail: dhonawa@cherokee.org.