[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 59 (Tuesday, April 24, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E632]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      IN RECOGNITION OF THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS' SOUTH BAY AREA GAMES

                                  _____
                                 

                         HON. LAURA RICHARDSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 24, 2012

  Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an exciting 
event that took place in the 37th Congressional District this past 
weekend: The Southern California Special Olympics' South Bay Area 
Games. The games took place on Saturday, April 21 at the Veterans Park 
and Sport Complex in Carson, California.
  As a once aspiring Olympic athlete myself, I have always supported 
the Special Olympics and their goals. The Special Olympics of Southern 
California provides year-round sports training and competitions for 
children and adults with intellectual disabilities, all at no cost to 
the athletes or their families.
  The Special Olympics, however, serves a deeper purpose than simply 
recreation and competition. Special Olympic athletes gain the 
opportunity to develop physical fitness and athletic skills, create 
relationships with other athletes and community members, and 
demonstrate the courage to achieve their dreams. Within the Southern 
California chapter alone, there are nearly 11,600 athletes and 15,000 
coaches and volunteers. These numbers illustrate the popularity and 
far-reaching impact of the games.
  The Special Olympics were first started in 1963 by Eunice Kennedy 
Shriver as a camp to provide people with intellectual disabilities with 
physical fitness and sports. Five years later, she organized the first 
International Special Olympics games, and athletes around the world 
have competed ever since. I am proud to be a co-sponsor of the Eunice 
Kennedy Shriver Act, which will authorize funding for sports, health, 
education and employment programs for people with intellectual and 
developmental disabilities.
  Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize the hard work of the athletes 
and volunteers of the Southern California Special Olympics. I know the 
people of California will continue to support the games and be inspired 
by the dedication of those involved.

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