SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 954

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Ben Thompson for his success at the 2015 University Interscholastic League track and field state championships; and

WHEREAS, Ben competed in the 100-meter and 400-meter wheelchair races at the state meet in Austin; he finished fifth in the 100-meter race with a time of 20.76 and fourth in the 400-meter race with a personal-best time of 1:16.26; and

WHEREAS, A student at Hirschi High School in Wichita Falls, Ben was born with spina bifida, which affected the development of his legs; and

WHEREAS, Ben has refused to allow his condition to define his life and has embraced an active lifestyle that includes playing basketball at his church, serving as statistician and student manager for several Huskies athletic teams, and participating in the rigorous International Baccalaureate academic program; and

WHEREAS, Ben participated in the track and field wheelchair division for the first time this year; he worked hard at training for his events and steadily improved his times, and he has been using a racing wheelchair only since the district meet this year; and

WHEREAS, He is truly deserving of recognition for his perseverance and positive outlook and his success as a competitive athlete; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 84th Legislature, hereby commend Ben Thompson on his exemplary achievements at the 2015 University Interscholastic League track and field championships and extend to him best wishes for continued success in all his endeavors; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for him as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate.

Estes

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 22, 2015.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate