Sports

The 30th World Children's Baseball Fair 2024 in Fukuoka

About World Children's Baseball Fair

The World Children's Baseball Fair is organised by the World Children's Baseball Foundation, established by Mr. Sadaharu Oh and Mr. Hank Aaron, the World Home Run Kings in Japan and the United States. Their aim is to foster the sound mental and physical growth of young people and enrich humanity, and also to promote international goodwill and friendship among them through baseball and so to contribute to world peace. In collaboration with local governments, the foundation invites boys and girls from Japan and abroad to participate in baseball clinics, international exchange games, and various exchange events.

This year, the commemorative 30th event was held in Fukuoka Prefecture, a place with strong ties to Mr. Sadaharu Oh, from July 28 to August 5, 2024.

Participants included boys and girls from 14 countries and regions around the world (Australia, China, Fiji, Germany, Guam, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Federated States of Micronesia, South Africa, Thailand, the United States, Vietnam, Chinese Taipei, and Japan).

Baseball Clinics

In the baseball clinics, beginners were able to experience the joy of baseball while learning the basics of "throwing, hitting, catching, and running".

Exchange Events

・In nine cities and towns within the prefecture, unique exchange events were conducted. These events enhanced the children's international awareness, allowed them to experience Japanese culture, and created opportunities for them to revisit Fukuoka.

・Watching a Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks game and attending the farewell ceremony at the MIZUHO PayPay Dome FUKUOKA inspired children to aspire to become professional baseball players and contributed to nurturing children who will be involved in baseball throughout their lives.