My long awaited book, CHAMP! The One And Only Alma Hunt, is now on sale at local book stores. And I am gratified and not the least bit surprised at the most favourable reception it is getting from all quarters.

This book is about a superstar, with universal appeal, not just to cricket lovers, but to all who appreciate good sportsmanship. Alma Hunt was the greatest cricketer this country has ever produced. Moreover, he was a great administrator, a true visionary, charismatic, combative. Champ's is one of the most incredible success stories.

Rather than yield to the temptation to do a self-review, I thought I would defer to what other people have said, starting with none other than Alma Hunt, Jr., who is a scholar in his own right, and a worthy scion of the man whose name he proudly bears.

"This book is accurate, inclusive of all the major events pertaining to Champ's extraordinary life. It is exceptionally well-written; has its own rhythm totally in sync with Champ's own life," he said.

"The quality of the printing, the cover design, the layout, all first-class. The type size, quotations highlighted in red, all make it easy to read. Nothing tedious. I am proud of the effort; it is a credit to my father and the family."

Of course, he was paying tribute to this author. And I in turn pass on the credit first and foremost to David Wellman, Jr., of OMax Graphics for his energy and professionalism in the design and layout, and to Paget Wharton, and his staff at the Bermuda Press, who were the printers. It is a totally Bermudian 144-page effort, colourfully illustrated with a distinctive hard cover produced in China.

Former President of the Bermuda Senate, Albert S. Jackson, CBE, in a foreword to the book, stated: "Those who have had the privilege of walking and talking with Alma Hunt will know that a major part of his outlook maintains that there were values in sport generally ¿ and in cricket in particular ¿ which could and would contribute substantially in the resolution of many of the human problems created by differences of cultural, national or racial origins."

Arnold A. Francis, CBE, in his preface noted: "CHAMP! The One And Only Alma Hunt is itself a champion in revealing information about the illustrious career of Alma (Champ) Hunt. This exciting book ought to be essential for cricket lovers around the world and for all Bermudians who seek knowledge about outstanding Bermudians."

I must say in passing, that it is significant CHAMP! is being launched on the very weekend when Bermuda celebrates its first National Heroes' Day, honouring of course, the late Dame Lois Browne Evans.