Title
Proclamation commemorating the 50th anniversary of Harvey Haddix's outstanding pitching performance for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Body
WHEREAS, the rich history of the Pittsburgh Pirates steeps deeply in Western Pennsylvania and gives lessons of life to those who follow baseball; and
WHEREAS, from Honus Wagner, Pie Traynor, the Waner Brothers (both Big and Little Poison)and Ralph Kiner to Roberto Clemente, Dick Groat, Elroy Face, Bill Mazeroski and Willie Stargell, many great names have passed through the Pirates organization, however, none have given as an incredible individual performance in one game as Harvey Haddix; and
WHEREAS, Haddix threw what baseball experts consider to be the greatest game ever pitched against the Milwaukee Braves on May 26, 1959; and
WHEREAS, Haddix pitched 12 perfect innings - no Milwaukee Braves player made it to first base throughout that span; however, in the 13th and final inning, Haddix allowed one run after giving up only one hit, and the Pirates lost 1-0; and
WHEREAS, despite the outcome, Haddix's performance is one of the most memorable in Pirates' history; it also contained an invaluable lesson that pertains to life outside of baseball: Perfection is an unachievable human pursuit, but the secret of success lies in the pursuit of this perfection;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, Allegheny County Council, on behalf of the citizens of Allegheny County, hereby recognizes the 50th anniversary of Harvey Haddix's amazing pitching performance for the Pittsburgh Pirates. We commend the career of this great athlete and pay tribute to his contribution to Allegheny County's long legacy of memorable sports accomplishments. He will forever be remembered in our region for his indelible efforts.