[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 114 (Tuesday, September 21, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1657]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    PAYING TRIBUTE TO MATT HEMINGWAY

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                        HON. THOMAS G. TANCREDO

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 21, 2004

  Mr. TANCREDO. Mr. Speaker, the 2004 Summer Olympic Games are 
returning to the birthplace, Athens, Greece. The Games are an 
opportunity for the world's athletes to showcase their talents, and 
have the possibility to earn the distinction of the World's best of 
their sport.
  Matt Hemingway, a relative of Ernest Hemingway, has trained 
rigorously to earn a spot on the 2004 American Olympic team; to be 
classified as one of America's best high jumpers. Hemingway cleared 7 
feet, 7.25 inches, winning the silver medal. The gold medal winner, 
Sweden's Stefan Holm, jumped 7-9.
  At the 2004 Olympic trials, Matt placed second with a jump of 7-6.5, 
a foot more than his 6' 7" frame. In 2000, Hemingway reached his 
personal best height of 7-9.5, the best jump in the world that year; 
earning him the 2000 United States Indoor title.
  Matt occupied a two year hiatus by acting as a whitewater river guide 
in Colorado. However, his passion for the sport and the thrill of 
competition called him back to competing. Matt now trains by playing 
basketball and running in the Colorado hills. Colorado's high altitude 
and temperate climate provides an excellent environment for Olympic 
caliber athletes to train and live.
  Mr. Speaker, the accomplishments of the 2004 Olympic athletes are 
awe-inspiring. Matt and the other Olympians have made us all proud.

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