Miracle to put English twist on treats

By Robyn George
Fort Myers News Press

Forget the hot dogs and peanuts. Strawberries and cream are taking over at the Fort Myers Miracle games. Well, perhaps “taking over” is too strong a phrase. But the traditional Wimbledon treat can be consumed by fans at two upcoming Miracle games at the Lee County Sports Complex.

In honor of the Lawn Tennis Championships, strawberries and cream will be served during the 5 p.m. game Sunday and the 7:05 contest Monday.

“It’ll be like a later afternoon snack or an early dessert,” said Andrew Seymour, the Miracle’s promotions director and assistant general manager who came up with the idea. He’s been a Wimbledon fan “back to the days of Bud Collins.”

In-game updates on that day’s play will also be announced during the Miracle games.

And in case you’re wondering about the snack at the All England Club, about 62,000 pounds of strawberries and 1,540 gallons of cream are consumed at the event each year. The Grade I Kent strawberries are picked the day before, arrive at the club at 5:30 a.m. and are then inspected and hulled to ensure freshness.

As far as the Miracle are concerned, this is the first year of the event. How much of the treat is eaten is up to you.

Tickets are available by calling 768-4210. Bon appetite.