The Nationals’ apparent decision to vary the location of the presidents race finish line in 2012 isn’t just confusing for the spectators at Nationals Park. Apparently Teddy Roosevelt is a bit out of sorts over it as well.
After alternating the location for the first two games, the Nationals gave the reasonable impression that the pattern might continue, so when the gates opened for Saturday’s 4th inning presidents race, Roosevelt took off for the 3rd base line.
After realizing he’d run the wrong way, Teddy slammed on the breaks and reversed course, but by then, he was a distant 4th with no chance to catch George Washington.
Abe Lincoln, however, cut the outfield corner to pass George at the turn, and in a tight 3-way finish, edged out his competition to take the tape.
“Honest” Abe’s history of cheating is well-documented, but presidents race finish line judge Screech once again ignored Abe’s transgression, and awarded the victory to Abe.
The race capped a busy day for Teddy and the rest of the racing presidents.
After completing a rare late night presidents race doubleheader in extra innings last night, the team was up early to participate in this morning’s National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade.
Video below courtesy of YouTube member lfahome.
Parade photo by Sarah Guthrie.
LET TEDDY WIN 