[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 100 (Wednesday, June 30, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1236]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING RAY ROBSON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 29, 2010

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate 
Pinellas County's Ray Robson who, at the age of 14, became America's 
youngest chess grandmaster.
  Ray's passion for chess began at age three when his father, Gary 
Robson, brought home his first chess set. They played chess daily, with 
Ray's father beating him every time, until he was four. Ray continued 
to excel in chess, and his father soon lost track of how many times his 
son had beat him.
  By the time Ray was 11, he earned the distinguished title of chess 
master, and still holds the distinguished honor of being the youngest 
chess master in Florida's history. Over the past four years, his 
record-setting performances have continued to resound throughout the 
chess community. In addition to being an international master, Ray was 
also the youngest person to qualify for the U.S. Chess Championship, 
the youngest recipient of the Samford Chess Fellowship, and the 
youngest participant for the U.S. at a World Team Championship.
  Ray's dedication, perseverance, and achievements are truly 
remarkable. I cannot imagine the pressure he faced while challenging 
and defeating some opponents more than twice his age. I would also like 
to commend Ray's parents for their role in helping their son develop 
his talents and succeed. The national and international recognition Ray 
has earned is incredible, especially for a young man of only 15. It is 
my honor to stand before Congress and recognize the accomplishments of 
Ray Robson, and I wish him continued success in the future.

                          ____________________