Culpeper softball team advances

By Bob Groves, Sports correspondent
Published: July 3, 2008

Fittingly, the District 14 Little League girls’ 11-12 year old All-Star Championship game was a beautiful and inspiring way to lead into Independence Day festivities at Locust Grove Elementary School last night.

Shelby Thornhill led off the home half of the seventh inning with a single, then brought home the winning run from third, igniting the 5-4 Culpeper Nationals victory over East Orange.

Later, as they sat in the shadow of the hot sun, Thornhill and her fellow all-stars learned they would next play in the state tournament July 11 in Norfolk.

Culpeper will be well represented with a talented group of young ladies that could easily compete with many high school programs.

“It’s just been a real joy, absolute privilege,” said manager William Cropp. “The most talented group ever.”

Katrina Wright got the win while losing pitcher Leslie Walker fanned 11 batters for East Orange. Culpeper National finished the district tournament with a 4-0 record to advance to states.