By Haley Mitchell Godwin

“J. Bo’s Homerun Derby” will take place Sunday, Oct. 20, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at E.L. Turner Park in Luverne. The event will be an opportunity to honor the life and legacy of Jason Bowen, known to many as “J. Bo,” with a special fundraising event celebrating his love for baseball and softball and his dedication to youth sports.

 The derby will serve as a benefit to raise money for his family following his tragic death in a car accident on July 4.

Judy Russell, a close family friend, spearheaded the effort to organize the home run derby as a way to support the Bowen family and bring the community together in remembrance of Jason.

“Jason’s wife Heather is the same age as my daughter Hanna, and they played softball together as kids,” Russell said. “My husband coached them when they won the world series in 2001. We’ve been close to Heather’s family for a long time, and when I heard about Jason’s accident, I just felt the need to do something for Heather and her children.”

Jason was known as a beloved and devoted husband and father of three, but he was also a respected baseball and softball coach, admired for his commitment to his family and the community. His contributions to local youth sports have left a lasting impact, as he coached teams across various sports. 

Bowen’s three children, a high school senior, a 16 year old and a 12-year-old, have grown up with their father’s strong influence both on and off the field. Russell shared that Jason’s encouragement and positivity were always felt by not only his children, but also their teammates and his players, whether through a pat on the back or a hug after a game. 

“His positive energy was contagious,” Russell said. “We want his family to know they’re not alone, and that this community stands with them and that their baseball and softball family will always be here for them.”

According to Russell’s daughter, Hanna Russell Lombardi who grew up playing softball with Heather and has known her for 37 years, Bowen was always present at the ballfields. She said he was always there for a pat on the back or a hug to tell the kids what a great job they were doing.

“Heather and I went to separate schools, but we always played league softball together,” Lombardi said. “As we got older and started our families, we reconnected through baseball and softball with our kids. Like many in this community, we were devastated to hear about Jason’s accident. We just want the Bowens to know how much we care for their family, even if we can’t see them every day, we can show our support through this event.”

The event will feature a home run derby open to the public, with divisions for males and females of all ages. Participants can swing for the fences with a bucket of balls costing $20, and winners will receive Home Run Derby Champion rings. In addition, gift cards to local restaurants will be available as prizes and donations for the Bowen family will be accepted throughout the day.

Various food options will be available including Preston’s food truck, Dixieland Kettle Corn, La Mexicana De Luverne Taqueria, The Red Rock food truck, Flamingo Shaved Ice and more. Those unable to attend the event but wishing to support the family can make donations at any Troy Bank & Trust location. 

As the community rallies around the Bowen family, J. Bo’s Homerun Derby is expected to not only raise much-needed funds but also provide an opportunity for reflection, celebration and the shared love of a sport that brought Jason and his community so much joy.