A 50th anniversary celebration that began last fall at the annual Tomato Bowl wrapped up on Saturday with a Spring Fling at Patrick Henry High School.

The day-long event recognized the school’s long and storied history in the Ashland area.

“We wanted to wrap it up with a bang, and open up the school to the community. We wanted everyone to see what’s going on here at Patrick Henry. I think we accomplished that, and, thanks to a number of volunteers and supporters, we had a great celebration. Today is the perfect ending,” Dr. Jeff Crook, PHHS principal, said.

The day featured a full day of scheduled events like three-legged and potato sack races, a band concert, and full schedule of sporting events. The Patriots took on Lee-Davis in baseball, softball and soccer, adding to the excitement of the closing event.

Various school clubs and organizations offered fundraising games and activities and a VCU Medical Evacuation helicopter drew a steady stream of onlookers. The Skyline Band played two sets and there was even a demonstration of the Jaws of Life.

The PHHS Chapter of the National Honor Society sponsored a Dunking Booth that enticed festival-goers to take a shot at some of their favorite teachers and administrators.

Former PHS principal Paul Vechione took a turn on the precarious perch and it only took several pitches for him to feel the chill of the water.

“The great thing about today’s event is that it gives all of our students an opportunity to participate and the clubs are using this as a fundraiser. So many people have come together to make this successful,” Crook said.

He said the past six months of celebration has only strengthened his view of PHHS and its traditions and heritage.

“We started off with the Tomato Bowl followed by a golf tournament in November and the formal celebration ceremony in March,” Crook said.

Looking back, Crook said the celebration reaffirmed the sense of community and pride. “Meeting all the alumni and seeing the pride they showed in this school has strengthened my feelings about the campus. It’s a great place to be. The parents, the community, the faculty and students all have such a community spirit.”

Crook said the celebration solidified Patrick Henry High’s standing in the community and allowed its many alumni to reflect on its 50-year history.

“They told the story of what the school means to this community,” he said.