Athlete of the Week: Christian Lowe

The East County Observer and Bogey’s Restaurant and Sports Pub have teamed up to showcase the East County’s top athletes. Each recipient’s article will be featured on the restaurant’s wall.

Ten-year-old Christian Lowe has just one goal in mind every time he steps into the batter’s box — hit one out of the ballpark.

It’s a goal the Braden River Little League Minor’s Division All-Star has been dreaming about since he first began playing baseball six years ago.

“I like to try to hit it out, and that’s going to be my lifetime goal,” Lowe said. “I’ve hit a homerun, but I’ve never hit it over.”

So when Lowe walked to the plate in the top of the first inning July 2, he couldn’t help but zero in on Manatee National’s pitcher and his lifelong goal. He dug in his cleats, placed a firm grip on the bat and waited for the pitch. Lowe didn’t have to wait long before making contact, sending the ball deep into center field for a three-run double.

Lowe’s two hits and a walk on the night helped propel Braden River past Manatee National 10-2 for their second win of the season.

“We work together and blend together, and I think that makes us a very good team,” Lowe said.

Lowe started playing T-ball for Braden River when he was 4 years old.

“I like that it’s competitive,” Lowe said. “You have to work hard and you have to work as a team.”

He worked his way up through T-ball and pitching machine before spending the last two years playing in the league’s minor’s division. Last month, Lowe, who pitches, catches and plays third base, was named to his first all-star team.

“I think he’s very respectful of the other players and coaches and he’s a very good listener,” Braden River assistant coach Richard Nelson said of Lowe. “Everyone gets along with Christian.”