[Big Six]

August 24, 1940

"A Day With Mike O’Farrell” Contest Winner Announced


BOSTON—The Holsum Bread “A Day With Mike O’Farrell” contest drew over one thousand entries from all over New England. From the many, many outstanding submissions, the selection committee has chosen the essay written by Clarence Flippen, age 9, of Revere, Massachusetts. Clarence will have the chance to spend an entire day with Red Sox pitcher O’Farrell on Saturday, September 23.

Clarence’s special day will begin at 11:00 a.m., when he will visit the Red Sox dugout. There he will meet O’Farrell and other members of the Red Sox. Then, Clarence and his family will be the O’Farrell family’s guests in a special box. Red Sox general manager Pat O’Farrell, Mike O’Farrell’s father and a Red Sox Hall of Famer himself, will host the Flippen family during the game.

That evening, the Flippens will join Mike O’Farrell for a delicious seafood dinner at the Union Oyster House. The fun-filled day promises to be a special one for Clarence, who is an avid Red Sox (and Mike O’Farrell) fan.

Following is Clarence’s prize-winning essay:

Why I’m Mike O’Farrell’s Biggest Fan
by Clarence James Flippen

I know Mike O’Farrell has thousands and thousands of fans who cheer for him every time he pitches for the Red Sox. All of us would love to spend a day with him and get to know him, but I think I’m the fan who would enjoy it the most.

I decided Mike was my favorite player the day I saw my first Red Sox game. Mike pitched that day and the Red Sox won the game. My dad told me that night that when he was my age, his favorite player was Pat O’Farrell, Mike’s dad. That was what made me decide I would root for Mike no matter what. My dad and I listen to the Red Sox on the radio whenever we can. I try to never miss one game Mike pitches.

Another reason I’m a big fan of Mike’s is because I’m a pitcher, just like him. I have seen and listened to games when things are not going well for Mike, but he never gives up. I have learned from him that I shouldn’t give up either. So when things don’t go right for me, at school or in a baseball game, I remember that lesson and keep trying my best.

I hope I get the chance to meet Mike and tell him that I really appreciate the way he helps me do my best. That’s the biggest reason why I think I should win the “Day With Mike O’Farrell” contest.