[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 44 (Wednesday, April 20, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: April 20, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
 THE MICRONESIAN GAMES, 1994--``BROTHERHOOD/SISTERHOOD AND EXCELLENCE''

                                 ______


                        HON. ROBERT A. UNDERWOOD

                                of guam

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 20, 1994

  Mr. UNDERWOOD. Mr. Speaker, I went home to Guam for Holy Week and as 
an added pleasure, I was lucky enough to watch some of the 1994 
Micronesian Games which were held on Guam. This was a festival of 
excellence in competition, but even more, it was a celebration of 
goodwill, friendliness, and warmth.
  My island played host to some 1,800 athletes from throughout the 
Micronesian region, and everyone pitched in from Government officials 
to business people to our local military. The sporting venues were in 
superb shape, second only to the athletes and their sportsmanship.
  It truly was a special time on Guahan.
  Now the Micronesian Games are over. Eight days of pain, sweat, 
victory, and defeat. The legacy of the 1994 games is now in the hearts 
and collective spirit of the people of the Pacific.
  People like the three Sison Sisters of Dededo, Guam. Each of the 
sisters participated in different sports and earned gold medals. They 
dedicated their success to their parents, and at every game, every 
event, Delores and Thomas were there for their children.
  People like the team from Chuuk who won silver medals in the women's 
relay race. The Kosrae team gave its canoes to the Chuuk team, which 
didn't have any of their own. Out of gratitude, the Chuuk team gave 
Kosrae two of their silver medals.
  The emotion I felt when I placed three medals around my own nephew's 
neck--David Silva--can't be compared to any feeling I've ever 
experienced. It was a combination of pride, joy, and satisfaction in my 
family, my people, and my island.
  I'd like to mention each and every one of the 1,800 athletes, because 
I can say with confidence they are all winners. However, out of respect 
for economy and efficiency, I will not submit each name for the record. 
So, to the athletes of Chuuk, Kosrae, Nauru, Pohnpei, the Marshall 
Islands, Palau, the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas, and my 
island of Guam, I say with all the passion I can muster, You are 
outstanding and, by the way, Guam came out ahead in the total medal 
count as well as in gold medals received.

                          ____________________