Young people from around the area enjoyed the first ever pitch, hit, and run competition held at the Lansford Little League Complex on Saturday. The Knights of Columbus Panther Valley Council coordinated this event.

The baseball and softball competition was open to boys and girls aged 7 to 14, and is sanctioned by Major League Baseball.

“We have targets set up for the pitching part in two of the fields,” said Bob Infante, coordinator of the program. “One field for baseball, the other for softball. They get five changes, and they get points if they hit the target. Then they will be timed on how fast they can run from home base to first base. The third event is hitting, that takes place on the third field. They each give five chances to hit the ball.”

According to the MLB website, “Athletes are tested, and their measurements are recorded. Based on their scores, they advance from a local event to a Team Championship held in MLB stadiums. Top scores then qualify for an all-expenses-paid trip for two to compete at Finals, which is hosted at the World Series.”

“It’s a free event for the kids, open to anyone, not just the Panther Valley area, ages 7 to 14, boys and girls,” Infante said. “And, we’re thankful for the Little League, they opened their concession stand, so it helps everybody.”

The winners of the various categories: Boys age 7 and 8, Mason Srevrenick; boys age 9 and 10, Calvin Krisak; Boys 11 and 12, Tim Bowser. Girls age 11 and 12, Karlee Honshiko; girls age 13 and 14, Dawlyn Williams. The winners of each category won a certificate. Those who won and still need to pick up their certificate, should contact Bob Infante at kofcstjpv@gmail.com.