Recognizing the Special Olympics' 40th Anniversary

RECOGNIZING THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS' 40TH ANNIVERSARY -- (House of Representatives - July 30, 2008)

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Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, this year marks the 40th anniversary of the Special Olympics--an organization dedicated to providing individuals with intellectual disabilities an opportunity to train and compete in athletic events. Over 2.5 million individuals from across 180 countries participate in events held year-round.

As the world gathers in Beijing, China for this year's Summer Olympic Games, we should remember the 2007 Special Olympics World Summer Games that were held in Shanghai, China, in October 2007. This was only the second time the games have been held outside the United States and attracted over 7,000 athletes. From my home State of South Carolina, Special Olympics South Carolina sent four athletes--Diana Poiletman of Columbia, Eric Brown of Columbia, Jason Morrow of Spartanburg County, and Darlene Wycuff of Spartanburg County--who brought home an impressive total of 9 medals. These strong individuals embody the best of the human spirit and truly represent the words of the Special Olympics' motto: ``Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.''

I wish to congratulate the millions of individuals who compete and participate in the Special Olympics. In particular, I want to recognize Anne Burke and Eunice Kennedy Shriver who founded the organization in 1968. Their dedication and tireless efforts on behalf of intellectually disabled men, women, and children around the world are truly remarkable. In South Carolina, Barry S. Coats, President and CEO of Special Olympics South Carolina and all his staff and volunteers should be commended for their wonderful work.

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