AUSTIN, TX--(Marketwire - Jul 6, 2012) - Leo Manzano, a Mexican American track and field athlete, fought his way to the finish at the U.S. Olympic Trials to become U.S. National Champion, earning his spot on the 2012 U.S. Olympic Team by finishing 1st place in the final of the men's 1500m with a time of 3:35:75.
Manzano, the fastest Hispanic man in track and field, joins his second U.S. Olympic team along with 6 fellow Longhorn Olympians for the 2012 London Games.
With one lap to go, Manzano pulled up from near the back on the outside lane engaging his speed, to edge his way up the pack to 4th place. As the group rounded the turn, Manzano accelerated with his signature kick to make a move on the outside of the pack and pull himself to 3rd; and, in the final lap, in a fight to the finish, Manzano sped past Matthew Centrowitz and Andrew Wheating to clinch 1st place.
"I am thrilled beyond belief and honored to be on the U.S. Olympic Team. These trials represented a culmination of dedication and training that helped me sharpen my finishing kick and run consistently in 2012," said an elated Manzano.
Manzano was born in Dolores Hidalgo in Guanajuato, Mexico, moved to the U.S. with his parents when he was 4 years old and became a U.S. citizen in 2004. He received a scholarship to the University of Texas.
This has been a stand-out year for Manzano who is the reigning USTAF Indoor champion (3:48.05).
Prior to the Olympics, Manzano plans to return to the prestigious Aviva London Grand Prix to defend his title at the Emsley Carr Mile.
"I am so honored and proud to represent the U.S. again at the games," said Manzano. "I am living the American dream and I am so grateful for the support of my family and my community."
Olympic Schedule:
1500m Round 1: 3 August - 20:05
1500m Semi-finals: 5 August - 20:15
1500m Final: 7 August - 21:00
Contact Information:
Contact:
Alicia Sankar
512-657-6733