He proudly received that medal that hung on his chest, the one that rewards the “Tourist Merit” and was presented from the hands of Lic Miguel Torruco Márquez.
As a witness to this event, there was great champion, Sergio “Maravilla” Martínez, who last Friday returned to the ring after 6 years of inactivity.
On going to the podium, the rector of the Panamerican University of Hospitality, Gastronomy and Tourism, Miguel Torruco, said:
“It is an excellent moment to recognize many successful Mexican champions and former boxing world champions, led by a man who has made his way by walking, I mean with all respect and admiration Don José Sulaimán, welcome. Your presence honors us. Throughout the decades, Mexican athletes have stood out worldwide in individual competitions, giving the people satisfaction, inspiration, example and pride ”
My dad listened attentively; Miguel Torruco Garza, son of the then rector and who was the main promoter of this recognition, as he is a great boxing fan, addressed a memorable message:
“I admire Don José like few people, I don’t know him very much, but I respect him and admire him very much. I wish Mexico had more characters like you, Don José, and we are sure Mexico would be a different country.”
There was a big round of applause. My dad humbly received that medal on behalf of the boxers of Mexico and the world whom he represented as President of the World Boxing Council,
At the end of his speech, my father went to where the Green and Gold Belt was, and presented it to Mr. Miguel Torruco, with these words:
“I want to give the rector this belt that is the commitment of mystique of poor people who reach glory based on work, the same work that you have given to this important sector of national tourism.”
After a long process of farewell for so much demonstration of affection that my father received from the Torruco family and all the guests, we went to have dinner. My father never took off his medal and spent the whole dinner talking about how special it was. It was a great day for him.
