Honor Mitch Tamkin Award

Senate Resolution No. 306 BY: Senator KAPLAN HONORING Mitch Tamkin upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Jack Kelly Award by USRowing on February 1, 2019 WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to outstanding athletes who have distinguished themselves through their exceptional performance, attaining unprecedented success and the highest level of personal achievement; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Mitch Tamkin upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Jack Kelly Award by USRowing to be celebrated at its Port Rowing Gala on Friday, February 1, 2019; and WHEREAS, President and Founder of Friends of Port Rowing, Mitch Tamkin will receive this prestigious award in recognition of his superior achievements in rowing, service to amateur athletics, and success in his profession, thereby serving as an inspiration to American rowers; and WHEREAS, Mitch Tamkin began his rowing career while attending Kent School, where he earned the opportunity to row for two junior national teams; in 1976, he rowed the bow seat for the Four with Cox which won a Silver Medal at the Junior World Championships in Villach, Australia; and WHEREAS, This extraordinary man went on to become a successful oarsman at the University of Pennsylvania, dedicating countless hours to making boats go fast; and WHEREAS, Mitch Tamkin's notable wins include rowing in the 5-seat in the freshman eight that won the Eastern Sprints, and forming part of the team who won the Ten Eych Trophy at the IRA National Championships three consecutive years; and WHEREAS, In addition to starting two paper trading companies, Mitch Tamkin assisted in the formation and growth of Friends of Port Rowing, where he currently serves as President; under his able leadership, the program has evolved at a rapid pace, becoming the largest on Long Island; and WHEREAS, Mitch Tamkin truly upholds the highest level of coaching, steadfastly encouraging rowers to reach their full potential; and WHEREAS, Since 2014, Mitch Tamkin has also served as a board member of the National Rowing Foundation, dedicating his time to promoting rowing and making the sport more accessible; and WHEREAS, Athletes such as Mitch Tamkin provide a tremendous service to the future of our State and Nation, inspiring generations of athletes in their athletic journeys and ensuring their success in their future years; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is moved to honor Mitch Tamkin for his extraordinary athletic accomplishments which are a tribute to his skill, dedication and commitment; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Mitch Tamkin upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Jack Kelly Award by USRowing on February 1, 2019; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Mitch Tamkin.