For 20 years in the Midlands, the Lexington County Blowfish has established itself as a championship organization.

First in Columbia and now in its present home on the other side of Lake Murray, the organization has also championed the positive accomplishments taking place in the surrounding community.

The latest recipient of Blowfish co-owner Bill Shanahan’s praises was 11-year-old Kenneth Blevins Jr. of Pelion. After reading about the Pelion Elementary student’s recent indoor electric kart racing championship exploits at ColaDaily.com, Shanahan immediately reached out to the family.

At Wednesday’s monthly luncheon, Blevins was the guest of honor where he displayed his newly won K1 Speed Junior Division United States and E-World championship trophies.

Founded in 2003, K1 Speed is the world’s largest indoor electric kart racing operator, with 88 locations in seven different countries and 30 states. K1 Speed is a unique upscale entertainment concept for casual consumers, racing enthusiasts, and corporate or group events. K1 Speed offers an International Franchise and is currently accepting applications.

Dressed in the outfit he wore while winning both races in Concord, N.C. and Ontario, Calif. during a span of 24 hours, Blevins received a warm ovation. Shanahan also announced that Blevins would appear at the team’s June 7 “NASCAR Night” promotion.

Blevins had an opportunity to sit in a 1996 Z28 Camero once driven by late NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt Jr. The rare Signature Series vehicle was brought to Lexington County Stadium by owner Karl Horner Jr., distributor for Justice Brothers Car Care Products.

As an added bonus, Blevins also received $100 from Horner to support the young racer’s career pursuit. In fact, Shanahan announced plans to hold a raffle during the June 7 game with proceeds going to the Blevins family.

While a fan of NASCAR driver Chase Elliott, Blevins currently hopes to join the Formula One circuit when he’s older. For now, he’s focused on his latest races in Greenville.

“I like to run fast, and I like to run against other people,” said the soft-spoken Blevins about his love of racing.

Shanahan also announced that on June 6-7, the team will be working with Lexington County Farm Bureau to hold a Home Grown Home Runs Weekend.

Along with holding events such as goat milking, the Blowfish will wear special jerseys with the Farm Bureau logo and pictures of homegrown vegetables like corn and peaches on the back.

A jersey auction to raise funds to support Farm Bureau is currently ongoing on the team’s website and will end at 9 p.m. on June 7.

A final team luncheon which is set for May 27, will promote the current roster and coaching staff. New assistant and former Blowfish and Columbia International player Buddy Bleasedale spoke at Wednesday’s luncheon.

Lexington County opens the regular season May 28 at the Florence Flamingos. The next night prior to the home opener from noon to 5 p.m., the team will hold its first Blood Drive in partnership with The Blood Connection.

Spokesperson Amaris Jenkins discussed the center’s efforts to increase the level of valuable blood supplies for local hospitals. It has an office in Lexington County.

Opening weekend will culminate with USO Night on May 31. The second annual softball game between the Richland County Sheriff’s Department and Lexington Sheriff’s Department will take place with the USO Trophy on the line.