By Kelly A. Shue
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

This summer, baseball fans all over the country could not help but get caught up in the record-breaking, home run race of controversial player Barry Bonds.

Yet rather than focusing on the rumors swirling around Bonds’  accomplishments, Riderwood baseball fans chose to celebrate the national pastime with a little friendly competition.

Embracing the technological advantages of the Nintendo Wii video gaming system, both resident and staff fans of all skill levels stepped up to the plate and took a swing in Riderwood’s first Wii home run derby challenge.

Fast-growing phenomenon
Following on the heels of the successful Wii bowling tournament earlier this year, the home run derby became a logical extension of weekly Wii bowling  games that have attracted 400 residents since they began in May.

Like an actual baseball game, a pitcher “throws” the ball to the batter, who then swings hoping to make solid contact with the ball. However, unlike an actual game, both the pitcher and the batter use a hand-held controller with motion sensors allowing them to mimic the pitch and swing movements.

“It’s the strangest feeling,” says Dottie Mackin, the derby’s winner. “You swing your arm and then see the ball on the big screen.”

‘‘It’s neat,” says fellow resident Gordon Stiles. ‘‘It’s almost educational because it teaches you to work your body and mind together.”

All types of players
Due to the simplicity of the Wii game, many people who have little or no experience with baseball were able to join in the competition.

“I saw many women trying their hand at batting and pitching for the first time,” Doris Terry says. “Everyone was cheering; it was just a fun time. It’s wonderful to see people willing to try something new.”