[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 11]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 15471]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT GARRETT

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 17, 2008

  Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. I rise today in recognition of an 
organization that is influential in the lives of millions across this 
Nation and around the world. Since 1968, the Special Olympics has 
celebrated those who triumph in the face of adversity and achieve 
victory despite insurmountable odds. This organization recognizes the 
ineffable beauty of human life and emphasizes the dignity of people 
with intellectual disabilities.
  In 1968, Eunice Kennedy Shriver founded the Special Olympics in honor 
of her sister, Rosemary. The first games were hosted at Soldier Field 
in Chicago, and featured over 1,000 participants from the United States 
and Canada. Since that time, the Special Olympics has become one of our 
Nation's greatest exports, serving 2.5 million athletes in over 180 
nations and offering year-round training and competition in 30 Olympic-
type winter and summer sports.
  The Fifth District of New Jersey holds two major venues of our Winter 
Games each year: Campqaw in Mahwah features cross country skiing and 
snowshoeing, while Mountain Creek in Vernon holds alpine skiing and 
snowboarding.
  Earlier this year, I was honored to have John Rosati, a Special 
Olympics participant from Mercer County, visit my office. In addition, 
I would like to recognize one of my own constituents, Kelley Sue Martin 
of Closter. Not only does she compete in alpine skiing, bowling, and 
track and field, but she also serves as a spokesperson for Special 
Olympics New Jersey and speaks at community and fundraising events 
throughout the state.
  As the Special Olympics celebrates its 40th birthday on July 20, I 
join my colleagues in recognizing the indelible impact left by this 
exceptional organization. Over the past four decades, the Special 
Olympics has been an effective catalyst for social change. Special 
Olympians develop improved physical fitness and motor skills, greater 
self-confidence, and a more positive self-image. Participants grow 
mentally, socially and spiritually. They exhibit boundless courage and 
enthusiasm while enjoying the rewards of friendship and discovering new 
abilities and talents.
  Few creeds sum up the American Spirit better than the oath of the 
Special Olympics: ``Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in 
the attempt.'' I applaud the Special Olympics for providing an arena 
for athletes to follow this creed.

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