The Palm Beach Post

Marlins offer family fun a train ride away

- Your Turn Ibiza Murphy Guest columnist

As a busy mom of two kids living and working in Palm Beach County, taking time out to enjoy life with my family and our love for baseball is an ongoing joy and tradition.

As a Marlins Member and proud season ticket holder, there’s nothing better than watching the Miami Marlins play in person. This season has been filled with fast-paced games and excitement, and now it’s ramping up for an incredible finish! We’re looking forward to this final month and cheering on our Marlins during the homestretc­h as they battle for the Postseason. We know how much the Fish depend on fan support and how hard they’ve worked to earn it this season.

For us, there’s no traffic jam; getting to LoanDepot park is a breeze — we hop on the Brightline and the kids are happy during the commute that is traffic free — with lots of snacks. I’ll have a drink or snack, they get some screen time, we all relax, and in no time, with no drama, we’re in Miami.

Once we’re there, the Home Runner shuttle takes us from the train station right to the ballpark with plenty of time to spare ahead of the first pitch. We attended the World Baseball Classic earlier this year and had a blast! Being a South Floridian all of my life, the Brightline was really our first introducti­on to public transporta­tion, getting us down to Miami when we otherwise might not make the trip.

Once inside LoanDepot park, the kids come alive! They love visiting Billy the Marlin’s Boathouse, eating Dippin’ Dots, visiting the selfie mirrors and heading to AutoNation Alley with the hopes of catching a home run ball.

It’s amazing to be part of the Marlins 30th anniversar­y this year. Growing up in West Palm Beach, I attended my first Marlins game in 1993. I am a first-generation American in a family that came from Cuba. My grandfathe­r was actually a pitcher in the 1939 amateur World Series for the Cuban National team. I’m often reminded of my heritage when visiting LoanDepot park for all the games, but especially when my family and I attend the Marlins’ Cuban Heritage Celebratio­n. Everything from food, music and the entertainm­ent, the heritage celebratio­ns hit the mark. The uniqueness of Marlins games introduces my children to a culture only South Florida has to offer.

My family and I look forward to the Marlins homestretc­h and more baseball in the seasons ahead! Hop on board and join us as we cheer on our hometown team during this pivotal postseason push.

Ibiza Murphy is a resident of Royal Palm Beach.

 ?? PROVIDED ?? Ibiza Murphy and her family at a game.
PROVIDED Ibiza Murphy and her family at a game.

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