BRASILIA, BRAZIL---Boardman native Michael Mannozzi returned back to duty at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California last week after competing in the World Athletics World Race Walking Team Championships.
      Mannozzi raced in the marathon, finishing 49th, in 4:06:59. This is his best time internationally and second-best time ever in the event. He noted that the altitude was a hearty challenge, but his resolve was even stronger. The field for the marathon featured an Olympic champion, and multiple Olympic and World Championship Medalists competing. The race equivalent of the World Cup for soccer and gave Mannozzi his highest global ranking in the past six years.
      There were 94 starters including 54 men and 40 women. The top walkers competed at the USATF Marathon Race Walk Championships, on Jan 11 in Santee, CA. In order to qualify for the World Race Walking Team Champs, competitors had to finish top-5 in the men’s marathon under 4:05. Mannozzi was 5th in 3:53:20.
      Each country had their own selection criteria for the World Team Champs. Over 40 nations participated. Race walking is one of the most diverse events on the Olympic Program. This is the ninth international team for Mannozzi. He was one of three military athletes on the team that included fellow airman and training partner in Nick Christie, and Jason Cherng of the US Army.
      Mannozzi continues to strive despite being operational in the Air Force. He felt he optimized his opportunity to compete in the highest level on the globe.
      Race walking has had a life changing impact on Mannozzi, a 2005 Boardman graduate He would like to thank the local support of many over the years including; Second Sole, Pizza Joes, Cirelli Jewelers, Davis Family YMCA, Outdoor Rec, and most recently the Youngstown Clothing Co. He is also thankful to USA Track and Field for the opportunity to represent Team USA. He takes great pride and honor in wearing both the Air Force uniform as well as the Team USA uniform.
     
      PICTURED: MIKE MANNOZZI, pictured, recently competed n the World Athletics Race Walking Team Championship held in Brazil. In this photos he recognized a local favorite with his Pizza Joe’s hat.