[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 88 (Tuesday, July 11, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1206]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       IN HONOR OF MARC SYLVESTER

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 11, 2000

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute to Marc Sylvester, 
a member of the boys track and field team at St. Ignatius High School 
in Ohio. Marc has been selected by the Cleveland Plain Dealer as a part 
of their All-Star Boys Track team as the middle distance runner for the 
Spring 2000 season.
  Marc has demonstrated exceptional athletic ability and tremendous 
commitment to his sporting activities. This past Spring season, Marc 
Sylvester has become an integral part of St. Ignatius High School's 
track and field team. He ran the 800 meters, leaving opponents far 
back, and ran anchor for the 4x800 and 4x400 relays. In the Division I 
Relays at Amherst Steele, he set the record for the fastest 800 meter 
race ever run by an Ohio high school athlete. His time was I minute, 
49.50 seconds. Such accomplishments are outstanding, and I commend him 
for his devotion and commitment. Unfortunately, two days after 
regionals, Marc suffered a partially collapsed lung and was held out of 
the state meet. But Marc's sterling track career has not ended with 
this setback. While it was disappointing not running at the state meet, 
Marc is feeling much better and is now working towards winning the 
National Outdoor Championships in Raleigh, North Carolina. Marc's 
strong faith and belief in his abilities has enabled him to become one 
of the finest athletes in northern Ohio, and perhaps the nation.
  Recognition by the Cleveland Plain Dealer of Marc's accomplishments 
is an amazing honor because it acknowledges the hours of sacrifice and 
patience needed to cultivate stamina and perseverance, as well as 
excellence in teamwork and cooperation. More importantly, I am inspired 
by his motivation, poise, and good sportsmanship on and off the playing 
field. Marc is the quintessential model of grace under pressure. I am 
impressed by such optimism and devotion. He is truly remarkable. I know 
that Marc has much to offer. I look forward to offering more 
congratulations to this promising athlete in the future.
  My fellow colleagues, Marc Sylvester is an outstanding and 
inspirational individual. Please join me in honoring his notable 
accomplishments and achievements in track and field.

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