Congratulations to Danny Leal, Winner of the First Annual 600 ESPN El Paso Hudson’s Wiffle Ball Home Run Derby [Video]

While Major League Baseball's best were in Kansas City for the 83rd All Star Game, El Paso's best wiffle ball players convened at Hudson's Classic Grill on Lee Trevino for the first annual 600 ESPN El Paso Hudson's Wiffle Ball Home Run Derby.

A strong downpour threatened to delay the contest, but the skies parted and emcee Steve Kaplowitz got things started just after six PM.

Ten contestants were ready swing for the fences and walk away with the grand prize:  A skybox experience at Cohen Stadium, a $100 food voucher at Cohen, a $100 gift card from Hudson's, a trophy provided by the Private Line, and the Piece de resistance, an autographed picture of Dodgers' great Steve Garvey......(not even kidding)

The format was similar to the MLB Home Run Derby.  The top four home run hitters in the first round would advance to the semifinals.  An aggregate total from the first two rounds would determine the two finalists.  The slate would be wiped in the finals, and the player who hit the most homers in the finals would be the winner.

Of the ten players, Ruby Rodriguez was the only female brave enough to take some hacks with the boys.  She had some good shots, but failed to clear the fence......better luck next year, Ruby.

Danny Leal established himself early in the contest as a force to be reckoned with.  Leal got better as the contest wore on.  He wowed us with his power and consistency.

Joe Fernandez was a strong competitor as well.  Fernandez muscled his way into the finals against Leal.  Joe needed ten homers in the final round to defeat Leal, but came up a little short.

Here is a moment Danny won't soon forget, receiving the beautiful trophy and autographed picture of Steve Garvey from Hudson's owner Anthony Duncan.

Thanks to everyone who came out to participate or cheer on someone in our first ever Wiffle Ball Home Run Derby.  We had a lot of fun, and are sure this will be one of our most popular events in the years to come.  We hope to see all of you next year!

A special thanks to all the great folks around town who made this possible:

Hudson's Classic Grill

El Paso Diablos

The Private Line

Wiffle Ball U.S.A.

Morse Enterprises

El Paso Convention and Visitors Bureau

Steve Garvey