TRIBUTE TO DECLAN FARMER

TRIBUTE TO DECLAN FARMER

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 57 (Thursday, March 26, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 57 (Thursday, March 26, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S1666] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO DECLAN FARMER Mrs. MOODY. Mr. President, today I ask the Senate to recognize an extraordinary athlete and a proud son of Florida's Suncoast, Declan Farmer for once again bringing honor to our Nation with his gold medal victory at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games. This remarkable achievement marks a historic fifth consecutive gold for Team USA in para ice hockey, a testament to the talent and tenacity Declan brings to the ice. Declan's journey began in Clearwater at the age of 9. A bilateral amputee, he discovered a passion for sled hockey that would propel him from the local rinks to the world stage. From his early days at Berkeley Preparatory School to his time at Princeton University, Declan has exemplified excellence both on and off the ice. His local roots in Florida remain deep. He has competed with the Tampa Bay Lightning Sled Hockey Team, the Space Coast Hurricanes, and Florida Bandits, inspiring athletes across our State and Nation. Since joining the U.S. National Team at just 14 years old, Declan has become a dominant force in the sport. His accomplishments include: Paralympic gold medals in 2014, 2018, 2022, and now 2026; leading scorer honors at the 2013 World Championship, as well as the 2018 and 2026 Paralympics; and recognition as the Best Male Athlete with a Disability at the 2014 ESPY Awards. Through tireless dedication and unmatched skill, Declan Farmer represents the best of the American spirit. It is a privilege to recognize his achievements and his contributions to Team USA and honor the legacy he continues to build for future athletes in Florida and across our Nation. ____________________