2010 Pacific Rim all-around champion John Orozco of the Bronx, N.Y., was presented the Citation of Merit by Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. Orozco, who received the award in recognition of his outstanding career as a gymnast, was also named an Ambassador of The Bronx.
Orozco, a resident of the Soundview section of the Bronx, won the U.S. Men’s junior all-around title from 2007-2009. In December 2010, Orozco relocated to the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colo., to continue his training as part of the USA Gymnastics’ Olympic Training Center’s resident athlete program.
“He is a truly inspiring individual who is worthy of the honor being given to him by my office,” said Bronx Borough President Diaz. “Through hard work and determination, John has become a big star in a very hard and competitive sport. He is a great example for many other kids in our borough, and I have no doubt he will be wearing the Team USA uniform in the next Olympic Games. The Bronx is very proud of him.”
“It’s an honor to receive a citation of merit from Borough President Diaz,” said Orozco. “More importantly, I am very proud that he bestowed on me the responsibility of being an ambassador of The Bronx, something that at such an early age I would never have imagined I could accomplish. I hope I can live up to the honor and responsibility so that I can continue being a positive role model to other kids from The Bronx.”