The Durham Bulls have been a Triangle tradition since the first outfielder caught a pop-up fly in 1902. Almost a hundred years later, the team is still a worldwide phenomenon although admittedly, a good bit of its reputation is due to the 1988 movie starring Kevin Costner and Susan Sarandon.

On Thursday, the Durham Bulls opened their 1999 season against the Richmond Braves (score: 2-1 Bulls). Last year, in the team's first season of Class AAA baseball, the Bulls drew record crowds and finished one game short of the league title.

Fan support for the team is phenomenal; season ticket sales are already up by 28 percent. Admission prices are cheaper than a movie and the atmosphere is very pro-family. Aside from haute cuisine (beer, hot dogs, pizza, popcorn and funnel cakes), between inning promotions feature mascot Wool E. Bull racing a child around the bases, a family attempting to hit a baseball out of the park, two teenagers squaring off in padded sumo wrestling suits, and fireworks after the game.

The new Bulls stadium--nicknamed the "D-BAP" (Durham Bulls Athletic Park)--is located in downtown Durham just off the Freeway. Tickets may be purchased through their web site or by calling 919.956.BULL. Bring your whole family for some great old-fashioned entertainment.

For maps, seating chart and ticket ordering, visit the Durham Bulls Web site.