Mr. DODD. Mr. President, it is with great pride and anticipation that I join all of Connecticut in extending our warmest welcome to the athletes, families, coaches and friends of the 1995 Special Olympics World Games. Right now, more than 6,700 athletes from every State in the Union, and from 125 nations around the world, are traveling to New Haven, CT, to compete in a world-class sporting event from July 1-9. These games constitute the largest sporting event in the world this year.

Twenty-five years ago, Eunice Kennedy Shriver established the Special Olympics--an international sports organization for people with mental retardation. She envisioned bringing joy and pride, developed through competition, to those about whom the world had forgotten, and believed could not compete. We are thrilled to have the privilege of hosting an event that has been an inspiration to the world. It is impossible to watch these games, witness the tremendous skill and courage of these truly special athletes, and not be changed in some way.

It is in that spirit that thousands of people have worked for more than a year to help make the dreams of these athletes a reality. I would like to commend the Shrivers, former Governor Weicker, the entire World Games Organizing Committee, the towns and families throughout Connecticut, and the thousands of volunteers who have so generously opened their hearts and homes to the athletes and their families.

In a world where professional athletics has often become synonymous with multimillion-dollar contracts and endorsements, the Special Olympics remind us of what sport is truly about--the thrill of accomplishment and the satisfaction that comes from giving your all.

The excitement and splendor of the Special Olympics extends beyond sports competition. The worlds of science, diplomacy, art, culture, and entertainment unite to honor the spirit of Special Olympics and achievements of people with mental retardation. There will be extraordinary events juxtaposing the drama of world-class sports with the power of courageous competitors achieving their personal best before the eyes of the world.

The talent and dedication of these athletes, their love for their sport, and their extraordinary sportsmanship are an inspiration to us all.

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