By Nanette Wiser
A LIFE WELL LIVED With the passing of Dave Wills, the Tampa Bay Rays lost a fan favorite. Wills, who has been the team’s radio announcer for 18 years, passed away in his sleep March 5 at the age of 58. Known for his enthusiasm and expertise, his booming voice called some sensational moments in Rays history, including the team’s run to the World Series in 2008 and 2020. “Dave was an outstanding broadcaster, a great friend and an even better person,” said Rays Principal Owner Stuart Sternberg. “He had a remarkable talent for bringing the game to life for our fans and was a vital part of the Rays family. We will miss him dearly and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
The Rays will honor Wills with a special pregame tribute April 22 when they play the White Sox for whom Wills worked for 11 years before coming to Tampa Bay in 2005. For those who want to honor Wills, his family suggested donations to two groups he worked with: Clearwater-based Homeless Empowerment Program and Tampa-based Buddy Baseball program.
DTSP RACE On 4/16, join the Tampa Bay Rays’ new “Running with the Rays 5K,” a family fun run you can enjoy in-person or virtually. The race starts at Tropicana Lot 6 and continues through the streets of downtown St. Pete, routing through Al Lang Stadium before finishing back on the Tropicana Field turf. A portion of all proceeds from the 5K will be donated to the Rays Baseball Foundation and the Rowdies Soccer Fund. General registration for the event costs $50 and includes a commemorative medal, timing chip and race bib, and ticket vouchers for both the Rays and Rowdies. VIP registration costs $75 and includes commemorative medal, timing chip and race bib, ticket vouchers for both the Rays and Rowdies with an upgraded seat location on the Rays voucher. www.mlb.com/rays/community/running-with-the-rays
WHIZ KIDS Tampa Bay Race Rentals (TBRR) is the ultimate drag racing experience. Strap yourself into a muscle car and zoom around the Showtime Dragstrip in Clearwater. Rookies and riders are invited to enjoy three hours of thrill-seeking fun including warm-up laps, burnouts and a competition! Perfect for a birthday or corporate event, TBRR is owned by NHRA Pro Stock motorcycle racer Flyin’ Ryan. 4398 126th Ave. N; 727-732-7666 TampaBayRaceRentals.com