By The Star Staff
The Puerto Rico Olympic Museum in San Juan is exhibiting for the first time the medals won by Puerto Rican athletes in 1930 during the Central American & Caribbean Games in Havana.
“We are very honored by Mr. [Manuel] Luciano’s contribution. His contribution enriches our exhibition and allows us to proudly share a significant part of our Olympic identity,” said Jorge Rendón, executive director of the Albergue Olímpico, in a written statement. “His commitment to our mission inspires us to move forward and continue our work of promoting the values of the Olympics and fostering a love for sport in our community.”
The first Puerto Rican medalists were the members of the military rifle team that won silver on March 27, 1930. Subsequently, Manuel Luciano stood out in track and field by winning a silver medal in the pole vault. Luciano’s grandson, Manuel Luciano Rodríguez, recently lent his grandfather’s medal to the museum.
“Throughout time, I have tried to honor my grandfather’s legacy, preserving the history that the medal represents,” said Luciano Rodríguez, speaking about the meaning and responsibility of sharing a piece of history with the people of Puerto Rico.
The exhibit also highlights the fact that during the 3rd CAC Games in San Salvador of 1935, Luciano was the standard bearer of the Puerto Rican delegation, carrying with him the single star flag at a time in which it was prohibited to do so.
The exhibition at the Olympic Museum not only serves as a reminder of the island’s sporting achievements, but also as a testament to the courage and perseverance of its athletes over the years.
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