The Raleigh Jaycees said Wednesday they are expanding the 2009 Protect Our Nation's Youth (PONY) national fastpitch softball championship. Hosted for the third year in a row by the organization, this year's tournament is expected to grow by nearly 66 percent.

PONY is designed to "Protect Our Nation's Youth" by providing experiences in youth baseball and softball that will help young people grow into healthier and happier adults. The Raleigh Jaycees first hosted the tournament in 2007 in Cary, N.C. and have continued to hold the championship there since. In 2008, the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau (GRCVB) estimated that the tournament had an economic impact of more than $1.5 million.

"2008 truly was a breakout year for PONY, the Raleigh Jaycees and our surrounding communities," commented Scott Dupree, vice president GRCVB. "With the number of registered teams up by seventy, we expect this year's tourney to be even more of a success than last year. The boost to our local economies in the form of much-needed tourism dollars is needed now more than ever - for that we thank the Raleigh Jaycees."

Carter Pettibone, 2009 president of the Raleigh Jaycees added, "We are extremely fortunate to have dedicated members who volunteer countless hours in making PONY a success. Their tireless efforts result in donations to several local charities, boost the local economy and provide a positive outlet for youths across our nation."

Tournament play begins on July 25 and continues through July 30. Games will be held at various fields throughout Cary. For more information about the 2009 PONY 12U & 14U Fastpitch Softball National Championships visit http://www.pony.raleighjaycees.org or call 919.713.0033.

About the Raleigh Jaycees

Chartered in 1932, the Raleigh Jaycees is an organization dedicated to leadership through community service. This all-volunteer, civic organization runs more than 100 community service and leadership development projects each year. The Raleigh Jaycees is an affiliate organization of the NC Junior Chamber, the US Junior Chamber and Junior Chamber International. Membership is open to anyone between 21 and 40 years of age. The group meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at the McKimmon Center on the NC State University campus. For more information, visit http://www.raleighjaycees.org or call (919) 713.0031.