July 8, 2007, Akron, Ohio - The Akron Racers saved their best game for last against Team China, as they won easily 8-2.

The Racers (13-7) were powered by consistent offense, scoring in all but one of the six innings they came to the plate.  The spark was generated by leadoff hitter Veronica Wootson going 3-3 on the day with a double and three runs.  The Racers were able to rely on that production all series from Wootson as she went 8-12 with three home runs, seven runs and four RBI's for the series.

All series the team that started quicker came out victorious, and this game was no different.  The Racers biggest inning was the first;  Wootson started it off with an infield single to shortstop.  After Norelle Dickson was beaned by China starter Wung Lan, center fielder Iyhia McMichael smashed a double down the left field line, plating Wootson.  McMichael and Dickson scored the final two runs of the inning, three batters later when Jenn Poore got a two out single to left field.

Not to be outdone, the Racers pitching staff and defense played just as well.  Starting pitcher Jamee Juarez (7-3) got the win throwing five innings allowing two runs on five hits and two walks while striking out five.  In the sixth, Juarez was replaced by April Valdez.  Valdez made her first pitching appearance for Akron a good one, throwing two no-hit innings, hitting a batter and striking out one.

Team China looked to be attempting to make a run at the Racers down 6-2 in the top of the fifth inning, when the defensive play of the game was made.  With one out, China had runners on first and second when pinch hitter Wu Di hit a sizzling ground ball to the right of Racer second baseman Wootson.   Wootson dove full out to catch the ball and completed the play by flipping the ball to first base from her stomach.  The play was one of five assists by the busy second baseman.

Next up for the Racers, they will play a benefit game tomorrow night at 7:05 P.M. against the vintage baseball team the Black Stockings.  Following that they begin a five game series with Denso Japan at 7:05 P.M. on Wednesday.

For ticket information you can contact the Akron Racers at (330)376-8188.