Senator Collins Commends Maine Native Russell Currier on Securing U.S. Olympic Berth

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Susan Collins released this statement following the announcement that Russell Currier of Stockholm, Maine had earned a spot on the U.S. team for the 2014 Winter Olympics:

"I am delighted that Russell has achieved his dream of becoming a U.S. Olympic athlete. Russell's successful bid represents the culmination of many years of extraordinary perseverance and dedication. I have known Russell and his family for many years and, along with the rest of the country, I look forward to cheering on Russell and his teammates when they compete in the Winter Games next month."

Currier, a graduate of Caribou High School, secured a place on the U.S. biathlon team by being the top American finisher in three of four qualifying races at the U.S. Biathlon Olympic Trials in Ridnaun, Italy. Currier learned to ski through the Maine Winter Sports Center and is the MWSC's first Olympian to have come entirely through its program.