Wawa launches 'SchwarberFest' hoagie promotion as Schwarber launches historic home run

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- When the Phillies made the playoffs for the first time in 11 years, Wawa customers asked for a special return of the 'HoagieFest' to mark the occasion.

Before Game 1 in San Diego, Wawa announced 'Schwarberfest', and the Phillies slugger seemed to take the honor to heart.

"I saw the big hit last night," said Larry Fain of Wilmington, Del.

Kyle Schwarber hit a 488-foot home run in the sixth inning.

"It was a bomb," added Greg Canzanese of South Philadelphia.

"If Schwarber would have hit that at home, I think the town would have exploded. It was crazy," remarked Pete Hondros of Richboro, Pa.

It had an exit velocity of 119.7 mph and was the first to reach the right field upper deck at Petco Park, which opened in 2004.

"Have you ever watched 'The Natural?' When he hit that ball, and it went over and it hit the lights? Well that's what I thought of- I just thought it wasn't going to come down," explained Robert Marston of Horsham, Pa.

The hit was the perfect way to ring in 'Schwarberfest.'

Schwarber hit an incredible 20 home runs over the summer during Wawa's traditional 'HoagieFest,' hitting 46 overall to take the National League crown.

Wawa announced before Game 1 of the NLCS they were bringing back the promotion.

You can get $5 Shortis and $6 Classics through the Wawa app.

It seemed to work.

"Hopefully we can have a HarperFest too," Fain said.

There was plenty for Phillies fans to be happy about: taking Game 1 on the road in San Diego.

Game 2 is up Wednesday afternoon.

"Every time I wear the jacket, they win," said Martson, whose Phillies jacket is getting a lot of wear these days, as well as his shirt, pants, and socks.

Hey, whatever it takes to let the good times roll!

"I think it's amazing what the Philadelphia Phillies are doing for us. It just makes my day even better," said Fain.

"I feel it in this team. The coach, Rob Thomson, he's doing great, making all the right decisions. I have faith. A little bit of faith," said Kevin O'Neill of Swedesboro, NJ.

In honor of 'Schwarberfest' and the Phillies success, Wawa made a $25,000 contribution to Philabundance.

"So, just as Kyle and the team are giving it their all to bring home a championship to Philadelphia, Wawa is thrilled to introduce 'SchwarberFest' and hopes fans keep dancing on their own couches and in the ballpark this week!" Wawa said.