On June 22, Antwoine Smith graduated from basic training at Lackland Air Force Base. As a gift to themselves, Smith and some Air Force buddies met up at Wolff Stadium to watch the Missions take on the Midland RockHounds.

A night at the ballpark wasn't the only gift Smith would receive.

Like 11 other baseball fans on Friday night, Smith left Wolff Stadium the owner of a “new used car,” thanks to the Missions' 11th annual Used Car Night.

Smith, who won a 1992 Ford Ranger, said he would put the vehicle to good use.

“My mom has been in a tight situation, and I've been trying to save up for a car but haven't been able to do it,” he said. “My pay was not enough.”

Despite a pregame rainstorm that delayed the first pitch by more than 30 minutes, 5,719 people showed up to watch the Missions defeat Midland 6-0.

Of those thousands of attendees, many submitted their names for the used-car drawing that took place between innings. Among the cars given away were a 1999 Ford Escort, a 1999 Isuzu Rodeo and a 1986 Nissan 300ZX.

Then there was the unofficial top prize — a 1996 Pontiac Firebird.

The Firebird, the last car given away, was awarded to Mary Gonzalez.

“I'm still in shock,” Gonzalez said moments after her name was called. “I was not expecting this.”

Neither was Linda Flores, who said she desperately needed the 1999 Ford Escort that she won.

“I've been praying for a car since January,” she said. “I've been looking for a job, and I need a car. Now I've got one. It's an answered prayer.”

The 12 winners at Used Car Night didn't get to leave the game with their cars but set up an appointment with the dealership that donated the vehicles to sign paperwork and pick up the automobiles. According to Missions officials, those who didn't want the car likely would claim the vehicles' cash equivalent.

Smith didn't plan to do that.

“I was out here to have fun,” he said, “but I was praying for a car.”

Clint Hale | 210SA