A local Miami “sports show” that evolved into a major media platform is giving back in a truly Miami way with Papi Domino Tournament, Sunday, April 13, at Miami Beach Bandshell.
Back on September 1st, 2004, Miami Herald sports columnist, Dan Le Batard, began his experiment into radio on WAXY 790 am. It was a sports show that kind of made fun of sports at the same time. The members of the show clearly loved sports, especially our local teams, but they never took themselves too seriously.
It turned out that people loved it or hated it. Fortunately, more people loved it. They developed a very loyal fan base. Inside jokes and listener participation made The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz different. Ground breaking, actually.
In 2013, ESPN picked up the show. They wanted to move it to their home base in Bristol, Connecticut. But Dan, being a Miami guy, didn’t want to leave Miami. He also felt that it was important that the show maintain its South Florida roots. Lo and behold, ESPN built a studio in South Beach for the show. Upstairs at The Clevelander, no less.
ESPN also even aired Highly Questionable, another sports show that Dan originally co-hosted with his father, Gonzalo “Papi” Le Batard. Papi’s presence, very Cuban accent, and wit, was adored by viewers and sports celebrities alike. In 2021, The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz spread its wings once again. The show left the nest of “The Mothership” that is ESPN. Dan started his own media platform named “Meadowlark Media”. John Skipper, a dear friend of Dan’s who formerly ran and arguably brought ESPN to its greatness, would be the CEO.
Dan Le Batard has made some pretty good friends along his rise as a sports media giant. Local celebrity, Ron Magill, of Zoo Miami, was given a weekly segment on the show where he answered caller’s questions about animals. Ron’s knowledge and charisma made that segment a fan favorite. ESPN even proposed dropping Ron’s weekly appearances when they picked the show up. But Dan fought for his friend, and Ron stayed. His segment became more popular than ever and remains to this day.
Papi Domino Tournament will also be the celebration of Ron’s 65th birthday.
All the proceeds will be going to Ron Magill’s Conservation Endowment. The mission of the Ron Magill Conservation Endowment is to support organizations and programs dedicated to ensuring that wildlife can thrive in the wild environments where it is naturally found, while also investing in individuals committed to becoming future wildlife conservationists.
On April 13th at the Domino Tournament, Ron will also be giving his famous “Sex & the Animals” presentation. He used to only do it once a year, on Valentine’s Day, to raise money for his massive endowment. In Sex & the Animals, Mr. Magill delightfully and graphically explains the unusual mating habits and rituals of some of our most interesting wildlife that we share this planet with.
Another great friend of Dan’s will be participating in Papi Domino Tournament as well at the North Beach Bandshell. The great Ricky Williams, legendary running back of The Miami Dolphins, will not only appear, but he will play in the domino tournament.
The event is being billed as a head to head battle between the former NFL star and Papi himself. Apparently there is some beef between the two of them that show fans know of. They plan to settle it the Miami way, with the tiles on the domino table.
There will be a special touch to Dan’s event as well.
A tribute to his late brother, David “LEBO” Le Batard. LEBO was a pillar of the Miami and international art community. Even if you don’t think you know LEBO, if you are from Miami, you have seen his work. David’s unique style and love for his craft sprung from his work. His collaborations with bands and musicians brought the artforms together in a way that was distinctly LEBO.
David will be missed by so many. Especially his family and those closest to him. I am proud to have just called him my friend.
For more information and ticket information, check out the website papidominos.com.
There will be great live music, a food court, cigar roller, and lots of fun activations at this supremely Miami fundraiser for charity. It might be the más Miami thing you do all year.
