Recognizing Erin Kerkhoff

Floor Speech

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a young woman in my district who has become an inspiration to women and athletes everywhere.

Erin Kerkhoff, a University of Northern Iowa sophomore and track star from Solon High School, earned a position on Team USA for the Paralympics in Tokyo.

Kerkhoff, who has 20/400 vision due to optic nerve degeneration in both eyes is ranked fifth in the world in the 400-meter dash after achieving a personal record of 58.23 seconds in the qualifying trials earlier this month, finishing second overall in both the 400- and 100- meter dashes.

The Second District and the State of Iowa are lucky to be represented by stellar athletes like Erin, Thomas Gilman, and Kenny Bednarek competing in this year's summer Olympics.

I could not be prouder to represent these three in Congress. Good luck Erin, Thomas, and Kenny, and bring home the gold.

Last week, I wished my sister Mari-Eleanor Martino a happy birthday, and this week I would like to extend a happy birthday to her husband, Ralph Martino. Happy birthday, Ralph, and we are delighted to have you in the family.

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