[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 17 (Tuesday, February 26, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E209-E210]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     COMMENDING BRIAN SHIMER, OLYMPIC BOBSLEDDER OF NAPLES, FLORIDA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. PORTER J. GOSS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 26, 2002

  Mr. GOSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute an individual from my 
district who never gave up. Brian Shimer, of Naples, Florida, came from 
behind on February 23rd and won a Bronze Medal in the 4-man bobsled 
competition.
  Now Naples, Florida, is not known for its snowfall, but it is known 
for commitment to community and dedication to principles. It is an 
amazing feat that Brian Shimer managed to pursue his bobsledding 
passion for the past 16 years--never giving up and making sure America 
did not abandon its pursuit of the sport. Five times Brian competed in 
the Olympic Games, each time, seeking to turn all his years of training 
and desire into an Olympic medal. He endured injuries, setbacks, and 
hundredths-of-a-second heartbreaks. Still, Brian kept trying. His 
teammates changed, the bobsled designs changed and the biological clock 
ticked toward the ripe old age of 40, but Brian continued toward his 
dream.
  This time in Salt Lake City, Brian Shimer won one of the two Olympic 
medals awarded to the United States in bobsledding--the first since 
1956. In doing so he brought an incredible gift back to the sport he 
loves, and to his family, friends and all who supported his 
unquenchable passion. He also made a statement about Americans--that 
dedication and perseverance to a cause is what makes us strong and our 
country great. Brian was the one who carried the American flag for the 
American team during the closing ceremonies for the Olympic Games--a 
testimony to the respect he has earned among his fellow athletes.

[[Page E210]]

  It makes us all proud that Florida Congressional District 14 is the 
home of an individual who truly emulates the Olympic and American 
spirit--Congratulations to Olympic Bronze Medal winner, Brian Shimer.

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