On October 12, 1926, Babe Ruth played in a barnstorming game at Artillery Park in Wilkes-Barre. On that day, he hit what he felt was the longest homerun he’d ever hit. He asked that it be measured – the only time he’d ever made that request – and reports show that he hit that ball an estimated 650 feet. It’s considered the longest recorded homerun in baseball history and a kiosk stands in Kirby Park to mark where the ball landed.

To celebrate this fun and fascinating piece of local history involving a man who is one of the most famous athletes of all time, Visit Luzerne County and the City of Wilkes-Barre are hosting the inaugural Babe Ruth Sultan of Swat Homerun Derby!

On Saturday, October 12 at the main softball field in Kirby Park, the women’s derby will take place from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., and the men’s derby will take place from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The winner of each derby will be presented with a Sultan of Swat trophy. The person who hits the furthest ball in each derby will be awarded the Bambino trophy.

All registration fees and event sponsorships will go directly to support the Geisinger Children’s Miracle Network.
Cost: $35

All participants must be 16 years or older. All bats must be ASA stamped/approved and will be verified at the derby. Participants may bring their own pitcher, or one will be provided.