[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 69 (Monday, April 29, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E501]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      CONGRATULATIONS GARRETT FORD

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                          HON. TROY BALDERSON

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 29, 2019

  Mr. BALDERSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an incredible 
feat by a remarkable young athlete from Licking County, Ohio.
  Garrett Ford, of Pataskala, began lifting weights just a few years 
ago, and it didn't take long for his family and friends to notice his 
affinity for the sport. As time went on, Garrett continued to work at 
the sport, lifting heavier and heavier weights, all the while bulking 
up and fine-tuning his skills.
  His passion for lifting took him outside the CrossFit gym last July, 
when he competed in the Ohio Special Olympics 2018 Summer Games, then 
was flown to Seattle to compete in the Special Olympics 2018 USA Games. 
After accumulating medals and victories along the way, Garrett flew 
halfway around the world last month to represent Licking County in the 
Special Olympics World Summer Games in Abu Dhabi. There, he won four 
gold medals for his performance, sweeping in his weight class in four 
powerlifting categories: deadlift, squat, bench, and combined.
  With his victories, Garrett, who was diagnosed with autism as a 
child, has achieved something extraordinary. I know I speak for 
everyone in Licking County when I say we are honored that he 
represented us in the World Summer Games--the first person to ever 
represent our county in such.
  Garrett's story sets an example for all of us--one of courage, 
determination, and believing in oneself. You see, he'll be the first 
person to tell you exactly how he wants to improve his performance. He 
constantly pushes himself to be better, never settling for less-than. 
At the same time, he doesn't get nervous. He doesn't take pity for what 
others may perceive as a disability. His steady perseverance and 
internal drive have pushed Garrett to extraordinary, global heights, 
and I'm confident that this won't be the last we're hearing of him.
  I thank Garrett Ford for bringing honor to Licking County, Ohio, and 
in turn I honor him for his incredible record of achievements.

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