The two sides of a group break

Last week at Wax Heaven I did a story on a guy who had spent hundreds of dollars on high-end products for a group break but was having trouble filling spots. With just a few hours to go, only a couple of spots had been filled. I felt terrible and blogged about it and with just minutes to spare, the group break sold out.

Benjamin, the host, did everything in his power to give me a free spot. Finally, after several attempts he nailed me down by showing me how I won a contest for a free spot. I was excited as could be for this would be my very first group break, something that has taken off big time on YouTube and Internet forums.

By the time of the drawing, I got stuck with Roger Clemens and the Kansas City Royals. I was almost certain to get a Royals hit but when the entire break was complete, I was the only participant left empty handed. If that’s not irony, I don’t know what is. That is a risk one takes when participating in a group break. It’s even more of a gamble than busting a full box sometimes. Benjamin offered me consolation prizes but I was just happy for the experience.

Fast forward a week and a reader named Kory just e-mailed to thank me for posting the group break info. As it turns out, the lucky son of a gun from Punxsutawney pulled a “case hit” from 2008 Topps Stadium Club with an autograph and three piece game-used relics of “Big Papi” David Ortiz.

Meanwhile, longtime Wax Heaven reader “Fake Horse Muffins” got stuck with four San Francisco Giants rookie autographs (ouch!) not named Tim Lincecum or Madison Bumgarner. Well, good thing he has a nice package from Wax Heaven on its way as we speak to help get rid of those San Francisco Blues.

Thanks to all who participated in the group break and I hope everyone walked away with a nice “hit” or two. This was definitely a one-time thing to help a collector in need so you guys don’t have to worry about me plugging any more breaks.

Now eBay auctions, that’s another story.