HORSEHEADS, N.Y. (WENY) - After capturing a state title at Ithaca College earlier this month, Horseheads senior Cullin Cole was recognized by Chemung County on Thursday for his accomplishments.

Chemung County Executive, Chris Moss recognized Cole with a proclamation. This is part of Chemung County Gold Medal Athlete Week as the Elmira boys bowling team will also be recognized on Monday for their state title.

Cole won the state title in the 50 Free with a time of 20.51. His time in the 200 Free Relay at states also earned him All-American status. Cole is the first Horseheads state champion in swimming since 1986, and he says today's recognition and being able to do it at his home pool at his school is something he'll never forget.

"It's something I never thought would happen. I just put in all of the hard work and dedication. It paid off for sure," said Cole. It's very special, definitely the best place I could've seen it be done. This atmosphere is great, I love it here."

"It honestly hasn't really sunk in yet. Being a state champ was something that I didn't see in my future until it happened really," he added.

The full Chemung County Gold Medal Athlete Week proclamation can be viewed below.

WHEREAS, the Chemung County Executive recognizes the significant achievements of local athletes who have demonstrated exceptional performance and dedication in their respective sports, and;

WHEREAS, Cullin Cole, Senior of Horseheads High School, Ty Bolt, Senior of Elmira High School, Alexander Smith, Junior of Elmira High School, Trent Belloma, Sophomore of Elmira High School, Skylar Shadduck, Sophomore of Elmira High School, Alexander Gublo, Freshman of Bradway Academy, and Frankie D'Angelo, Seventh grade at Ernie Davi Academy, have exhibited outstanding athletic ability and have brought great honor and recognition to themselves and to Chemung County through their athletic accomplishments;

WHEREAS, Chemung County commend and congratulate each of these athletes for their remarkable achievements, including Cullin Cole for his first place, 2023 New York State Boys Swimming Championship, with an All-American time of 20.51 seconds in the 50 Yard Freestyle, and the Elmira City School District's first place, 2023 New York State Division #1 Boys Bowling Championship.

WHEREAS, on this week, we honor their dedication, commitment, and contributions to sports and physical activity in Chemung County. We recognize their hard work and passion, and we thank them for being positive role models for young people in our community.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Christopher J. Moss, Chemung County Executive, on behalf of the County of Chemung hereby proclaim the week of Thursday, March 16th, 2023 as Chemung County Gold Medal Athlete Week in recognition of these outstanding individuals.