[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 85 (Tuesday, June 9, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1357]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      CONGRATULATING THE UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON MEN'S CREW TEAM

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                           HON. JIM McDERMOTT

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 9, 2009

  Mr. McDERMOTT. Madam Speaker, I would like to submit the following:
       University of Washington Men's Rowing Team and Honored 
     Guests,
       I write to give my hearty congratulations to the University 
     of Washington's men's rowing team for earning their 12th 
     varsity eight national championship, the 107th IRA Regatta, 
     and sweeping the eights on the way to a historic four golds 
     and five medals overall.
       This astounding overall performance was capped by a 
     thrilling come-from-behind victory over arch-rival California 
     and I would like to take this time to commend the varsity 
     rowers on their fine performance. Heath Allen, Aljosa 
     Corovic, Will Crothers, Steve Full, Rob Gibson, Jesse 
     Johnson, Max Lang, Katelin Snyder, and David Worley have 
     earned my utmost admiration, as have all the members of the 
     University of Washington's rowing team, down to the last 
     rower in the boathouse.
       What makes this victory so impressive is the volume of 
     dominance exhibited by this extremely deep team. The varsity 
     eight winning gold is an impressive feat in itself, but to 
     sweep the eights is the highest testament to the dedication 
     of the team and the culture of hard work and determination 
     established by Coach Bob Ernst.
       Since 1903, when the University of Washington first 
     participated in intercollegiate rowing, our crews have 
     established themselves as the toughest and most determined 
     crews in the country. This year's crews have continued that 
     tradition by emphatically putting the ``gold'' back in the 
     purple and gold.
       I am extremely proud to represent you in Congress and I 
     know that with the foundation of hard work instilled in these 
     young rowers by their coach and the University of Washington, 
     there are no limits to what they will go on to accomplish in 
     life.

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