The early returns are in and the Kelowna Falcons annual fundraiser for the firefighters Burn Fund was another large success.
Early estimates “ballpark” the figure raised at between $20,000 and $30,000 from the Wednesday night game, which went a full 14 innings before the spectacular fireworks display lit up downtown Kelowna.
According to Ryan Watters with the Falcons, it was a great night at the ballpark
“It was another amazing night,” said Watters. “The firefighters and the work that they put in promoting the game and on a daily basis is truly inspiring. The Falcons are excited to help raise funds every year for the Burn Fund and we all look forward to the event each season. Our players love playing in front of a packed stadium and with a comeback, 14 inning game last night they certainly put on a show for our great fans.”
Despite the length of the game, the majority of the fans stuck around for the fireworks show.
“Thank you to all the fans and supporters for not only the game but the funds raised for the Burn Fund as its just one of the ways we can thank our every day heroes,” said Watters.
In the game, the Falcons (15-9) broke out the brooms and swept the Cowlitz Black Bears (9-12) in a marathon five-hour game by a score of 6-5 in 14 innings.
The Falcons have now taken over sole possession of first place in the West Coast League’s North Divison and continue to fight for a first-round playoff spot. There are three games left in the first half of the season and the Falcons have put themselves in a very good position to make a nice run in the second half.
The Falcons will wrap up the first half of their schedule on the road against the Yakima Valley Pippins on Saturday, Sunday and Monday.