It's probably a shame that Belize's young athletes know more about the New York Yankees and A-Rod's millions than they do about Margaret Usher and Belize's 1979 female softball team that shocked the world when it beat the U.S. -; "2 to 1."
The woman on the mound who almost shut out the mighty USA was Margaret Usher. An awesome accomplishment upon may more in seasons of sporting splendor -; but for all that game the woman Margaret Usher has received precious little fame.
On April 16th, that should change when she is inducted to the International Softball Hall of Fame at a ceremony to be held at the Biltmore Plaza.
After 16 years in Los Angeles, she arrived in Belize today in preparation for that event and was given a welcome like it was back in the 70's when the national team would routinely return home in glory - we caught this "very important pitcher" at the airport's VIP room.
Margaret Usher, Softball Hall of Famer
"It's like déjà vu all over again like when I used to play and we would win a medal and come home to the press waiting and I never liked it and I still don't."
Jules Vasquez,
"Now you seem to still be in good shape, do you still throw softball?"
Margaret Usher,
"I still play but I play slow pitch. I used to fast pitch when I first got to California in a men's team."
Jules Vasquez,
"You are a member of the international softball hall of fame. How does it feel to know that you are recognized as one of the greatest to play this game internationally?"
Margaret Usher,
"Well you know it's a wonderful feeling, especially after you retire from softball and all the aches and pain like arthritis start. Something like this makes you forget the pain a bit."
Jules Vasquez,
"And also to know that you also walked out on the field as an underdog and you won and stunned the world."
Margaret Usher,
"When we beat the US it was great because we were the only team able to beat them at the Pan American games in 1979 and that's a feeling that will always stay with me."
Margaret says she plans to spend the Easter with her family as she does everytime she comes home about every year and a half.