Medalist Manzano makes homecoming

October 01, 2012, 6:45 pm by Adam Troxtell

Granite Shoals Mayor Dennis Maier, left, hands Olympic track hero Leo Manzano the key to the city. Manzano grew up in the town, and his mother and father still live there.

After months of soaking in the reality of winning an Olympic medal, Marble Falls’ own Leo Manzano shared that joy with family, friends and residents when he arrived home this weekend.

Manzano’s first public recognition since coming home actually came Saturday night at a St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church fundraiser dinner and dance at the Lakeside Pavilion in Marble Falls. The event was held to help finance the building of a church expansion, and their most famous parishioner was in attendance.

"Leonel Manzano is a member of our parish,” said Rev. Jairo Lopez, "And he decided to help us with building a new church. This event will benefit our building project and also welcome Leo back to our community and to Marble Falls.”

Mazano only recently returned home from his stint overseas, including the 2012 Olympics in London.

Sunday afternoon, Manzano was presented in a homecoming ceremony to a gathered crowd of over 400 people at the Marble Falls High School Auditorium. Silver medal in hand after his heroic efforts in London, Manzano said he was happy to be home after months of a new level of fame.

"I wasn’t expecting this big of a turnout,” Manzano said. "I’m just really excited about coming home and celebrating with everybody here. It’s still pretty unreal.”

Dennis Maier, mayor of Granite Shoals where Manzano grew up, declared Sept. 30 as Leo Manzano day for the city. The homecoming continued into Granite Shoals Sunday evening.

"All the people of Granite Shoals want to send all of their congratulations and recognition. Leo grew up here, his parents still live here, and I want to give him a giant welcome home.”

For the full story, see Tuesday's Highlander.