DELTAS OF YESTERYEAR RETURN

“Old-timers” reunion game highlights Deltaville Ballpark 75th anniversary fun

“It has always been here, and I pray to God that it will always be here.”

Edward Harrow Sr.’s words at this past weekend’s celebration of Deltaville Ballpark’s 75th anniversary season succinctly summed up the feelings of the more than 1,000 who attended the two-day event.

Deltaville Ballpark was packed for two nights of celebration, with a jazz and swing concert from Good Shot Judy highlighting Friday night, and a Deltaville Deltas versus Tappahannock Tides “Old-timers” reunion game of former players kicking off the festivities on Saturday. Roughly 40 former players from virtually every decade came from as far away as Florida to participate in the event.

Speaking on the origins of the ballpark, Harrow was joined by his contemporaries Robert Bratton and AJ Krowe and related how the community was — and still is — integral to Deltaville Ballpark’s existence.

Current Deltas Manager Jerry Crittenden echoed the importance of the community. “What has kept this ballpark going is you,” he said. “The people of Deltaville come together whenever we need something.”

Deltas versus Tides

After the Old-timers game, the current Deltas and Tides took the field. The game, officially a preseason exhibition, was cut short after just four innings when power failed throughout the county due to nearby thunderstorms and lightning. Tappahannock led 8-0 after a five-run rally in the fourth inning. As the game was not part of the league standings, it will not be made up.

The Deltas will return to action for the start of league play this Saturday night, as the Richmond Brewers will travel to Deltaville. First pitch is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.