On the recordMarch 5, 2010
I would like to congratulate all of the athletes who competed in the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver, British Columbia. The Olympics was a spectacular and awe-inspiring event that captured the attention and imagination of people across the globe. While the athletes often come from very different backgrounds and cultures, they share a bond that will last forever: each has earned the title of Olympian. Indeed, it was heartwarming to watch these athletes come together to showcase their talents in peaceful competition over a two week span. The United States was represented by an extraordinary group of athletes. As a team, these talented and determined competitors brought home 37 medals, the most medals ever for the United States in the Winter Games. There were many breathtaking moments and several firsts for the U.S. team. Michigan was well represented with close to two dozen athletes competing in a range of sports. I am proud of each person that represented the United States, and I am particularly proud of those with ties to Michigan. In fact, leading the parade of American athletes and holding the American Flag during the opening ceremonies was Michigan's own Mark Grimmette, a luger who competed in his fifth and last Olympic Games. Michigan continued its long tradition of hosting and facilitating the training of world-class athletes for the Winter Games.
