Senate Resolution No. 1416
BY: Senator GAUGHRAN
CONGRATULATING Angel Athenas upon the occasion of
winning four Gold Medals in powerlifting at the 2019
Special Olympic World Games on March 17, 2019
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
pay just tribute to those citizens who embody the true American spirit,
demonstrating personal courage and conviction in pursuit of athletic
achievement; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
congratulate Angel Athenas upon the occasion of winning four Gold Medals
in powerlifting at the 2019 Special Olympic World Games on Sunday, March
17, 2019, in Abu Dhabi; and
WHEREAS, Angel Athenas, is a record breaking, four-time gold medal
winning, 2019 World Games Special Olympian; and
WHEREAS, A resident of Huntington, New York, Angel Athenas captured
the gold medal in deadlift, squat, bench press and overall weight
lifting; her largest lift was a deadlift of 292 pounds; and
WHEREAS, Prior to her feats overseas, Angel Athenas won four gold
medals in powerlifting at the 2018 United States Special Olympics in
Seattle, Washington; in addition, she broke the women's deadlifting
record at the 2018 New York Special Olympics in Albany, New York; and
WHEREAS, The athletic talent displayed by Angel Athenas is due in
great part to the efforts of her Coach and Residential Director John
Ponce, a skilled and inspirational tutor, respected for his ability to
develop potential into excellence; and
WHEREAS, Born on November 7, 1984, Angel Athenas is the daughter of
Geri Athenas and Bob Bennett; she currently lives in a FREE residence
and participates in the organization's day services program in Old
Bethpage; and
WHEREAS, A true asset to her community, Angel Athenas volunteers at
Saddle Rock Ranch, a local church, and an assisted living home on Long
Island; and
WHEREAS, Through sports, Angel Athenas developed the talent and
confidence to become a champion on the world stage; and
WHEREAS, Overcoming much adversity, Angel Athenas' positive attitude
and tireless dedication has inspired countless others to reach their
highest potential; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
applaud the achievements of its citizens who would elect to challenge
life with an uncommon spirit and determination, demonstrating by example
and purposeful action that commitment to personal goals is the
wellspring of self-fulfillment and triumph; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate Angel Athenas upon the occasion of winning four Gold Medals
in powerlifting at the 2019 Special Olympic World Games on March 17,
2019; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Angel Athenas.
