Maude Newkirk proved she's no joke on April Fools' Day.
According to The Palm Beach Post, the Georgia native threw the first pitch at the Marlins-Cardinals spring training game at Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter, Fla., to celebrate her 106th birthday. Newkirk stood between the mound and plate wearing a Dontrelle Willis No. 35 Florida Marlins jersey and sneakers, and reportedly tossed the ball a dozen feet to Florida catcher John Baker.
"The ball got stuck in my hand," Newkirk told family members after the pitch, according to the Palm Beach Post.
The crowd gave Newkirk a standing ovation. In addition, Newkirk, who has 25 great-grandchildren and six living generations in her family, received hugs from relatives in the crowd.
Newkirk impressed 12-year-old Aaliyah Thomas, her great-great-granddaughter, with the throw.
"It's amazing she can still do this," Thomas said. "She's a great lady."
First pitches have become an annual tradition for Newkirk. She has thrown out the first pitch at seven spring training games since she turned 100.
"We look forward to her coming every year," Roger Dean Stadium general manager Joe Pinto said.
