[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 13]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 17930]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




            REMARKS ON THE OLYMPIC JOURNEY OF LEONEL MANZANO

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. K. MICHAEL CONAWAY

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 31, 2008

  Mr. CONAWAY. Madam Speaker, a son of Burnett County, Texas is going 
to the Olympics. I rise today to congratulate Leonel Manzano on his 
outstanding achievement in making the U.S. Olympic Track and Field 
Team.
  It seems Leonel was born to be an Olympian. His work ethic is 
legendary, his character is impeccable, and he can just flat out run. 
His dedication to his sport has earned him a spot to compete on the 
biggest stage in athletics and prove to everyone that a young man from 
a small corner of Texas can be the best in the world. It will be a joy 
to watch him represent my district, the State of Texas, and our entire 
country.
  As Leonel travels to Beijing, he will go with the hope and prayers of 
the entire Texas Hill Country with him. His neighbors, family, coaches, 
and even competitors have all helped forge him into the man he has 
become and we will all be watching in rapt attention when he steps into 
the blocks.
  If I could remind Leonel of just two virtues that bring success, it 
would be to always fulfill your God given talents and never forget to 
be gracious under pressure. If he can manage these two feats, as he has 
done so well in the past, he will return home an Olympic hero.
  It is my honor to represent Leonel, as well as his parents, Jesus and 
Maria Manzano, here in Washington. I share their pride in all that 
Leonel has accomplished. As he heads to Beijing, I wish him good luck 
and safe travels.

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