The Tribune

By RENALDO DORSETT

Sports Reporter

rdorsett@tribunemedia.net

FOR two of the Bahamas' most widely recognised icons in softball, their careers have produced national acclaim from the game's governing body.

Linda Ford and Alfred "Ali" Culmer were inducted into the International Softball Federation's Hall of Fame during a ceremony at Government House on Friday night.

Dozens of the biggest names in the sport, both locally and internationally, lauded the star studded player and manager for their long list of accomplishments.

Before she retired in 2005, Ford was widely considered the premier pitcher in the country during her career which spanned over 30 years.

She led the Bahamas from the mound in tournaments at the regional and international level, highlighted by a third place finish at the 1980 World Games in Santa Clara, California. She also competed in CAST tournaments, CAC Games and the Pan Am Games.

For her efforts, Ford was also granted with the M.B.E title by Queen Elizabeth II.

Culmer was one of the winningest managers during his active years on the fast pitch scene.

From 1978-2002, he has coached or managed 11 national teams. He led the Colina Crows to 13 undefeated National Championship teams and was also a member of the coaching staff for the aforementioned third place World Games team.

"The Bahamas Softball Federation has been affiliated with the ISF since 1966 and has shown its dedication to contributing to the growth of the sport. Many men and women from the Bahamas have been recognised for their roles as players, coaches, umpires or administrators over the years and in 2012 they are joined by two more," said ISF president Don Porter.

"Our hope is that they will be models for current and future participants in softball in the Bahamas to aspire to follow."

BSF president Burket Dorsett said the duo were the reason for the Bahamas' rise to prominence.

"Ali and Lynn are synonymous with success over the years as they both co-exist as manager, coach and player for more than 25 years," he said. "Their tenacious commitment and dedication has propelled this little Bahamas to world prominence."

There are now 14 Bahamians inducted into the ISF Hall of Fame.

"These two individuals built an outstanding softball team that dominated our local and national softball world for almost two decades. [They] have both represented the Commonwealth of the Bahamas with excellence in the sport of softball and for this we extend gratitude as a nation," said Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Daniel Johnson.

"Mr Alfred Culmer and Miss Linda Ford are a part of and represent the finest example of international sports heroes who have succeeded in bringing honour to their families and prestige to their country."