Geist Olympian Honored in Statehouse Ceremony

Gov. Mitch Daniels today distributed distinguished Hoosier certificates to Indiana Olympians and called them role models.

“That sort of self-control and work ethic is rare to find at any age,” Daniels said. “But to find it in those so young is an inspiration.”

Eight athletes with Hoosier ties who competed in last month’s Beijing Olympics attended a Statehouse ceremony.

Soccer player Lauren Cheney, a Ben Davis High School standout, wore her gold medal, and gymnasts Samantha Peszek of McCordsville and Bridget Sloan of Pittsboro wore their silver medals.

Cheney, 20, was the oldest of the group. Peszek and Sloan are 16.

The five other Olympians in attendance were divers David Boudia, 19, of Noblesville; Thomas Finchum, 18, of Indianapolis; Ariel Rittenhouse, 17, of Indianapolis; Haley Ishimatsu, 16, of Indianapolis and Mary Beth Dunnichay, 15, from Elwood.

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