[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 123 (Tuesday, September 10, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S10206]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       THE MINNESOTA PARALYMPIANS

 Mr. WELLSTONE. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to 
the Minnesota athletes who competed in the 1996 Paralympic Games in 
Atlanta. Over 3,500 athletes from more than 100 nations competed in the 
games, making it one of the world's largest sporting events. Overall 
the United States won 157 medals, including 46 Gold Medals. I salute 
each and every one of America's athletes, but I would like to mention a 
few of the 10 Minnesotans who participated in these important games.
  The U.S. Paralympic cycling team won 13 medals in the road and track 
races during this year's games. Christopher Pyrkosz of Livonia, MN, was 
among those receiving a team medal for his efforts on the U.S. team.
  Susan Hagel of Minneapolis and Josie Johnson of Gary also took home 
Bronze Medals, as part of the U.S. Paralympic women's basketball team.
  The U.S. Paralympic judo team surprised the crowds in Atlanta with 
their strong showing in this year's competition. Jim Mastro of Fridley 
earned a Bronze Medal for his individual efforts.
  Mitch Siedenfeld of Minneapolis also took home a Bronze Medal for his 
performance of the U.S. Paralympic table tennis team.
  The 1996 Paralympic Games in Atlanta demonstrated the independence 
and empowerment of individuals with disabilities. Dozens of records 
were broken at this year's games, and the competition received 
considerable media attention around the world. The strength and 
determination of the Paralympic athletes is amazing, and I am sure that 
my colleagues join me in celebrating the United States' excellent 
overall showing during this year's games.

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