The City of Poway announced that the campaign to create a community memorial recognizing its “Hometown Hero” Tony Gwynn is nearing its fundraising goal. The centerpiece of the tribute, located at the edge of the Lake Poway ball field, is a bronze statue of Gwynn standing more than 10 feet tall. The statue has been fully funded through community donations, but the campaign is still actively seeking an additional $20,000 to complete the surrounding plaza and donor recognition wall.
Fundraising for the memorial began close to a year ago, with close to $166,000 raised so far. To donate online or learn more, click here.
Gwynn is widely acknowledged as the greatest San Diego Padres player in the team’s history and one of the best Major League hitters of his time, but the Poway memorial reflects more than his athletic contributions. It expresses Gwynn as a father, a family man and a celebrated member of the community.
The statue and plaza are expected to be completed in April. Donors who contribute $250 and above will be recognized on the donor wall.