[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 113 (Thursday, July 26, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Page S5481]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           2012 OLYMPIC GAMES

 Mr. INHOFE. Mr. President, this Friday marks the beginning of 
the 2012 London Olympic Games. Every 4 years, our national pride is 
displayed as we join our family and friends to cheer on Team USA. In 
this summer's London Games, the 530-member U.S. team will compete in 25 
sports that span 246 medal events. Individuals and families make so 
many sacrifices just to have the opportunity to be a part of these 
competitions every 4 years. Rigorous physical challenges, early morning 
workouts, and total commitment are hallmarks of Olympians. Support of 
family and friends are also key to the success of these athletes.
  Several of the team members have ties to my home State of Oklahoma. 
Many basketball players have Oklahoma ties--Blake Griffin, James 
Harden, Kevin Durant, and Russell Westbrook are all members of the USA 
basketball team. Many of us have followed Griffin's career from his 
early days, even before he was a University of Oklahoma Sooner. Then, 
of course Durant, Westbrook, and Harden are members of the Oklahoma 
City Thunder team that captivated our State and drew us together on 
their amazing journey through the NBA playoffs this past season.
  All eyes will be on the Team USA's rowing team as they compete for a 
medal. Anthony Fahden of Oklahoma City, Will Newell of Oklahoma City, 
Tom Peszek of Oklahoma City, Nick LaCava of Oklahoma City, and Robin 
Prendes of Oklahoma City, will compete in rowing events.
  Our State has a rich wrestling heritage. Three wrestlers, one from 
Oklahoma State University and two from the University of Oklahoma, will 
represent our Nation and State. Cowboy Coleman Scott and Sooners Jared 
Frayer and Sam Hazewinkel will continue that tradition in London as 
they hit the mat for Team USA.
  Oklahoma will also be represented during the track and field events. 
Tia Brooks, a shot putter residing in Norman, secured a spot on the 
Olympic team with a big second throw at the U.S. trials. Brittany 
Borman, a javelin thrower also residing in Norman, secured first place 
and a spot on the U.S. team on her final throw at U.S. trials.
  In gymnastics, Norman resident Jake Dalton will regale audiences on 
the vault and floor exercises. Meanwhile, in the pool, Mary Killman, 
who was born in Ada, will compete in solo, duet, and team synchronized 
swimming.
  My wife Kay and I and our 20 kids and grandchildren will be watching 
these individuals and the entire U.S. Olympic team during the London 
Games, and we wish them every success as they make our State and our 
entire Nation proud.

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