Reds Country

More than likely if you are a sports fan choosing your favorite team growing up was easy. Either you grew up loving a random team that caught your interest or maybe you fell in love with your team because of proximity or family heritage.

Growing up in South West Ohio for me it was easy to cheer on the Reds every year, from the good to the bad. But is it just South West Ohio that feels this way? Of course not, there are Reds fans mixed in all over the country with different stories as to why they root for the team in Cincinnati.

It does not matter what state you live in, if you love the Cincinnati Reds you are a part of “Reds Country.” But what exactly is “Reds Country?” As mentioned in my last post the imaginary territory lines extend from Southern Indiana, down into Kentucky and Tennessee, even in to West Virginia. If you did not know, there are no pro baseball teams in these respected states, so latching on to a rich and storied franchise like the Cincinnati Reds can be an easy decision to make for a baseball fan.

What do the Reds do to accommodate all these fans that stretch across “Reds Country?” The Reds Caravan, presented by Cincinnati USA Regional Tourism Network. The caravan which happens every winter, usually beginning at the end of January, makes 15 fan stops in four states covering more than 2,800 miles over four days. There are Northern, Southern and Western “legs” of the tour stopping in Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, and West Virginia, with different Reds stars and personalities making appearances along the way. At each stop fans have the opportunity to get autographs, ask questions and see their favorite Reds off the field.

All caravan stops are free to the public. I can’t think of a better way to thank Cincinnati Reds fans for their love and support than to give them a wonderful way to connect with the people they cheer for.

Reds players and personalities ready for the fans. (Jan. 27 2013)

Over 2,000 fans pack the National Air Force Museum to see their Favorite Reds. (Jan. 27 2013)