14 News, The Tri-State's News and Weather Leader-Baseball legend Hank Aaron to be honored in Louisville

Baseball legend Hank Aaron to be honored in Louisville

Major League Baseball legend, Hank Aaron will receive receive the 2009 Living Legend Award from the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory later this month.

Aaron will be on hand to receive the award at the museum on Friday, November 13 in a ceremony kicking off the Sixth Annual  Slugger Museum Auction.

"The man who broke Babe Ruth's home run record has devoted his life to helping young people pursue their dreams with his Chasing the Dream Foundation," says Anne Jewell, Executive Director of Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory.  "We are very impressed with how Hank Aaron's Chasing the Dream Foundation continues to provide financial assistance each year for underprivileged youth to go after their greatest goals, in areas like music, art, writing, dance and sports," adds Jewell.

Hank Aaron's passion to help young people succeed inspired Louisville Slugger to produce 150 limited edition special collector bats with two special signature brands and an autograph by Hammerin' Hank, with proceeds to benefit the Chasing the Dream Foundation.   One of the signature brands comes from Aaron's original 1952 contract with Louisville Slugger which was the brand used on his bats throughout his career; the other from his 1971 contract which has been branded on a bat for the very first time.  Each bat costs $500 and includes a certificate of authenticity as well as two tickets to the invitation only Living Legend Event.  The bats can be purchased at www.sluggermuseum.com.

"During my baseball career I was a very proud member of the Louisville Slugger family and so I am deeply honored to be receiving the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory Living Legend Award," says Hank Aaron.  "I am delighted that Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory is supporting the work of the Chasing the Dream Foundation," adds Aaron.

The Living Legend Award recognizes greatness both on and off the field.  Other recipients are Frank Robinson (2008) and Ken Griffey Jr. (2007).

On Saturday, the  Museum, together with Hunt Auctions, will host its annual auction with a 1948 Jackie Robinson game-worn jerey and items belonging to the late Cardinals outfielder Curt Flood among those to be sold.