[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 41 (Wednesday, March 12, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E360]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   UNITED STATES PARALYMPIANS FROM THIRD DISTRICT OF COLORADO TRIBUTE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. SCOTT R. TIPTON

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 12, 2014

  Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the two outstanding 
athletes from Colorado's 3rd district who are competing in the 2014 
Winter Paralympic Games in Sochi, Russia. With their dedication, 
passion, and spirit, these two women are fine examples of the best our 
nation has to offer, and they serve as role models for young people 
around the world. To formally acknowledge their distinction and 
excellence, I stand to recognize these athletes from Colorado's 3rd 
district:
   Melanie Schwartz of Aspen, Colorado, will represent the United 
States in Alpine Skiing. Ms. Schwartz began her Paralympic career in 
her home country of Canada during the 2010 Vancouver games. In 2012 and 
2013, Ms. Schwartz chose to represent the United States in two World 
Cups, placing first in the slalom event in 2013. Earlier this year, she 
took second place at the 2014 U.S. National Championships for downhill. 
When she isn't representing us on the mountain, she spends much of her 
time giving back to her community through volunteer services, including 
serving as a ski instructor for children with disabilities.
   Heidi Jo Duce of Ouray, Colorado, will take to the slopes to compete 
in the challenging snowboard cross events. Ms. Duce has rapidly become 
a champion athlete since she won the U.S. National Championships in 
2013, her first year of competing professionally. She is currently 
ranked second in the world for para-snowboard cross. An avid 
outdoorswoman, she enjoys all that Colorado has to offer, including 
rock climbing, mountain biking, backpacking, and hunting.
   Mr. Speaker, it is truly an honor to recognize these fine athletes. 
Together, they show us what determination and passion can accomplish. 
Ms. Schwartz and Ms. Duce continue to inspire all of us and it is an 
honor to congratulate them on their extraordinary careers as they 
represent the best of America to the world.

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