Dunkirk’s connection to softball proved itself again as 58 teams converged on the city and completed 109 individual games, crowning champions in four age groups: 10U, 12U, 14U and 16U.

The Chadwick Bay Softball Bash brought thousands of attendees to the city for plenty of action, activity and a thrilling finale. “What a way to end a weekend, with one of the most exciting youth softball games I’ve ever seen,” said Kory Ahlstrom, tournament director. “Home runs, diving defensive plays, great pitching, neither team quit; Game 109 was the best softball of the weekend. I have to thank a few people without whom this game literally could not have been played: the City Parks and Recreation staff had these parks in amazing shape; Mayor Kate Wdowdiaz for her leadership; and I cannot say enough thanks to Coach Gomez and the boys of the Dunkirk High School Football program who donated their time and efforts to work on the fields throughout the weekend.”

That team effort is something that led to praise for the event as well as an uptick in business for city merchants. Next year’s event will be Aug. 1 to 3, 2025.