[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 75 (Tuesday, May 7, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E553]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





 RECOGNITION OF MR. COLIN GARRISON'S SPECIAL OLYMPIC WORLD GAMES TITLES

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                          HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 7, 2019

  Mr. CLEAVER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Mr. Colin 
Garrison's three Olympic victories at the 2019 Special Olympic World 
Games. The achievement of such a distinguished title takes profound 
dedication and practice on the part of both the athlete, coaches, and 
the community. The immense accomplishments of individuals like Mr. 
Garrison make me proud to represent the Fifth Congressional District of 
Missouri in the United States Congress.
  Out of the 216 athletes competing in the 2019 World Games, Mr. 
Garrison was one of two participants representing the state of 
Missouri. Having participated alongside countless talented athletes in 
Missouri for many years, Mr. Garrison was honored to earn a trip as a 
top contestant.
  Mr. Garrison's awards in bocce ball, both silver and gold, at the 
2019 Special Olympic World Games in Abu Dhabi are the culmination of 
years of hard work. Garrison overcame what might be perceived by others 
as obstacles in his life and turned them into blessings and triumphs. 
For the last 13 years, Colin has taken part in the Missouri Special 
Olympics, taking home titles in a variety of athletic categories. 
Furthermore, he has competed at the USA Games numerous times, including 
the 2010 and 2018 USA Games. Not limited to bocce ball, Colin competed 
in multiple sports such as basketball, softball, bowling, flag 
football, soccer, and more. Garrison says that he is not done competing 
and plans to continue training for future events. He hopes to once more 
join the American team at the 2023 Special Olympic World Games in 
Berlin.
  Through these athletic games and tournaments, Colin Garrison has 
traveled across the nation from Lincoln, Nebraska to Seattle, 
Washington, and now, he has expanded globally. Mr. Garrison enjoys 
visiting new cities and attending professional sporting events; 
however, his favorite part is meeting new people at each series of 
events.
  When Mr. Garrison is not competing, he is a crucial and beloved 
member of his family and his community. All those who know him feel 
blessed to have him in their life. His positive outlook and 
perseverance are two of his most defining traits. Working hard at two 
jobs, he always makes time for the rigorous practice schedule in a 
variety of sports. His coach and father, Mike Garrison, has said that 
he could not be prouder of his son and all that Colin has accomplished 
through his hard work and perseverance.
  Madam Speaker, please join me and Missouri's Fifth Congressional 
District in celebrating the accomplishments of Mr. Colin Garrison. I 
encourage my fellow citizens and constituents to unite together under 
the same spirit of positivity, resiliency, and determination that Mr. 
Garrison has carried throughout his long and prestigious career.

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