FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 21, 2004

CONTACT:
Raj Bharwani (202) 225-5101

Sensenbrenner Statement Following CAS Decision on Paul Hamm Gold Medal

WASHINGTON, DC -- Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner issued this statement
following the Court of Arbitration for Sport's (CAS) decision relative to
Paul Hamm's gold medal in the all-around men's gymnastics competition during
the 2004 Olympic Games:

"I am pleased that the Court of Arbitration for Sport recognized what most
Wisconsinites and Americans already knew -- Paul Hamm won the Gold in Athens
and without question should keep his medal.

"Paul's perseverance, integrity, and grit helped him first stage an
incredible comeback victory at the Olympic Games this summer, and then
weather the media and legal storm that was forced upon him by this frivolous
legal challenge brought about by South Korea, on behalf of Yang Tae-Young.

"I was further disappointed that the US Olympic Committee, USA Gymnastics,
and the International Gymnastics Federation failed to properly defend Paul
from the moment this challenge began, leaving him out to dry for eight days.
If they hadn't shirked their responsibilities in this case, this mess may
have been resolved months ago, and the Hamm family might not have had to
endure the hardship and uncertainty of having to defend Paul's gold medal in
the international court of public opinion.

"Paul's experience should serve as a lesson for future games.  I look
forward to carefully scrutinizing the agencies' actions during upcoming
hearings in the House Judiciary Committee, to ensure that future athletes
aren't treated like Paul by the organizations which send them to the
Olympics.

"I am glad the Hamms' ordeal has ended, and I wish them all the best in the
future."

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