TITLE: Recognizing Sidney Garton for his achievements.

SUMMARY: Recognizing Sidney Garton for his achievements.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Sidney Garton for his exceptional achievements in track and field; and WHEREAS, In the late 1950s, Sidney Garton established world records in the 220-yard dash and the 100-yard dash and was known at the time as the World's Fastest Human; and WHEREAS, While he was a member of the track team at East Texas State University, he ran the 100-yard dash in 9.3 seconds and the 220-yard dash in 19.6 seconds; although both times were wind-aided, they were widely recognized as marking Mr. Garton as the foremost runner in the world in each event; and WHEREAS, An Olympic-level competitor, he was unable to participate in the 1960 Olympic Games, but he held fast to his dream of taking part in the Olympics; and WHEREAS, After his career as an active participant was over, Mr. Garton continued to play an important role in his sport; he was nominated to carry the Olympic torch and light the flame at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, and when Muhammad Ali was chosen for that honor, Mr. Garton served as the back-up to assist him if necessary; and WHEREAS, Mr. Garton also took part in fund-raising efforts for the Atlanta Olympic Games, and the brick-paved section at Centennial Olympic Park that he sponsored bears his name in honor of his exemplary contributions; he is truly deserving of recognition for his enduring record as one of the finest and most dedicated athletes Texas has produced; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 83rd Legislature, hereby commend Sidney Garton on his many outstanding achievements in track and field 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 esteem from the Texas Senate. Eltife President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 30, 2013.