Honoring and recognizing Drexel University alumnus Justin Best, who mastered the sport of rowing on the Schuylkill River at Boathouse Row in the 4th Councilmanic District, for his contribution in securing the gold medal as one of four on the United States Olympic Rowing Team at the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, France.

WHEREAS, Justin Best, who was born in Kennett Square just received his first gold medal at the age of 26. From practicing in the Schuylkill River, Best, a graduate of Drexel, represented his country and his hometown in the Paris Olympics. When Best first began rowing at the age of 11 he was not naturally skilled at the sport; countless hours of practice and dedication propelled his success in the sport; and

WHEREAS, Nick Mead, who graduated from the Episcopal Academy and grew up in the Philly suburbs also joined the team assisting in their huge victory. Mead graduated from Princeton University where he also continued perfecting his craft; and

WHEREAS, Mead and Best have rowed together in the past. In the last Olympics they both participated in the 8-man boat but unfortunately did not reach the podium. However, this year, the Philly duo of Best and Mead proved too powerful to compete with, as the US 4-man coxless team defeated New Zealand. The connection and chemistry between the two Philly natives proved unbeatable; and

WHEREAS, Michael Grady, a third member of the winning 4 boat also was born in Pennsylvania. Grady who was born in Pittsburgh made this Olympic Rowing team 75% Pennsylvanian. Although Liam Corrigan, the final member of this incredible team was born in Connecticut, the team’s background and connection with Pennsylvania and Philadelphia is clear; and

WHEREAS, When asked about the impact of their team chemistry Best said “It’s been really special. Having that Philly connection to keeping the continuity and representing Philly on the biggest stage is pretty cool”. This sincere response highlights the togetherness and leadership of this amazing US Men’s Rowing Team; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Honors and recognizes Drexel University alumnus Justin Best, who mastered the sport of rowing on the Schuylkill River at Boathouse Row in the 4th Councilmanic District, for his contribution in securing the gold medal as one of four on the United States Olympic Rowing Team at the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, France.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to The US Men’s Rowing Team as an expression of the sincere respect and awe of this legislative body.

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