The 16th Annual City of Hope Celebrity Softball Challenge was held at Greer Stadium the afternoon of June 8, 2006. The City of Hope was founded in 1913 and is internationally recognized for medical and research centers dedicated to curing cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases. The Celebrity Softball game features country artists that come together to support City of Hope.
The returning opposing teams were Opry Live, featuring captain Vince Gill and After MidNite, featuring captain, Blair Garner.
All the participating artists joined together at home plate to sing the National Anthem. The softball game was more than great plays and hits, the event included a water balloon toss and relay race contests with member of the audience and country artists. Contest prices included tickets to the Opry Trust Fund show at the Ryman Auditorium featuring Joe Nichols, Wynonna, Jason Aldean and Tracy Byrd later that evening.
Vince Gill was the pitcher of the Opry Live team and a good sport when the medical staff was sent to him at first base with oxygen as a gag after he hit a single. Later in the game, Jared Ashley from the After MidNite team was thrown out at first base by pitcher Vince Gill and first baseman Chris Young, Ashley jumped into Young's arms for a no hard feelings hug. The After MidNite team was leading 7 - 2 going into the bottom of the last inning, when the Opry Live team rallied their bats and scored 6 runs that inning to win the game 8 - 7.
Opry Team roster: Vince Gill, Chris Young, Cowboy Troy, Danielle Peck, Keith Anderson, Little Big Town, Megan Mullins and Rio Grand.
After MidNite roster: Blair Garner, Amy Dalley, Blue County, Bryan White, Chely Wright, Chris Cagle, Jared Ashley, Jason Aldean, Jeff Bates, Keni Thomas, Rodney Atkins, Storme Warren, and Chad Brock.
