"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - Cherokee Nation Announces Holiday Winners

Fast Pitch and Co-Ed Softball Tournament

TAHLEQUAH, OK - The competition was tough at the Men’s and Women’s Fast Pitch and Co-Ed Softball Tournaments held in conjunction with the 56th Annual Cherokee National Holiday.

“Despite three rain delays, the tournaments were a huge success. I appreciate the patience of the players and fans,” said Denise Honawa, event coordinator. “It was great to see our elders participating in the games. I congratulate the winning teams and appreciate the participation from everyone who entered the tournaments. I look forward to seeing each of you at next year’s competitions.”

In the Men’s Fast Pitch Tournament, the Kansas Indians from Kansas, Oklahoma won the championship game. S&S from Sapulpa came in second. Third place went to Redline from Okmulgee and Moodyville from Moody placed fourth in the tournament. Fabian Glass was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) from the Kansas Indians team.

Sga Sdi Yu from Kenwood was the winning team in the Women’s Fast Pitch Tournament. Second place went to the Native Stars of Broken Arrow. Chahtas from Antlers, Oklahoma came in third and the Renegades from Oklahoma City took home fourth place.

EOS from Marble City won the Co-Ed Tournament. Second place went to High Five from Siloam Springs, Arkansas. HDB from Jay placed third and Wolfe Pac/Whitney Manufacturing out of Pryor took fourth place. Robert Locust and Dara Tyler were named the MVPs in the Co-Ed Tournament.

CN Announces Winners of Fiddlers Contest

TAHLEQUAH, OK - The Cherokee Nation recently held a Fiddlers Contest in conjunction with the 56th Annual Cherokee National Holiday that took place over the Labor Day weekend in Tahlequah.

“This year’s contest was bigger and better than last year,” said Jerry Bigfeather, event coordinator. “We had some new fiddlers in the competition and a larger crowd in the audience. Many came from out of state to come hear some good fiddling. I heard lots of good comments.”

Douglas Thompson of Rose took first place in the Junior Division. Second place went to Michael Thompson of Rose, Evan Alexander of Sand Springs placed third and fourth place was awarded to Brody Gaylord.

In the Open Division, Junior Marriott of Ava, Missouri was presented the first place award, Dave Gaylord of Vinita placed second and Bubba Hopkins of Spavinaw took home third place.

Earl Jennings of Claremore placed first in the Old Timers Division. Second place went to Sam O’Field of Claremore, and Roger Hale of Highlandville, Missouri placed third.

In the No Holds Barred Division, Michael Thompson won first place, Douglas Thompson took home second place and Junior Marriott received the third place award.

“I want to thank the planning committee and volunteers who worked hard to make this a successful and enjoyable event,” said Bigfeather. “I would also like to congratulate the winners and I invite everyone back to next year’s competition.”