Pure Gold: Flint's Claressa Shields Becomes First U.S. Olympic Boxer To Win 2 Gold Medals
FLINT (WWJ) - A historic day for Flint-native Claressa Shields -- who became the first U.S. Olympic boxer to win two gold medals.
Flint Mayor Karen Weaver says she's proud of Shields -- who really represents the city well:
"We're proud of Flint - there are a lot of people who are proud to be from Flint - let everybody know we're from Flint. We are Flint strong and sometimes we've gotten a bad rap but we are very resilient, we are proud of our city and we are fighters and she exemplifies all of that," says Weaver.
Saying that Shields has been a role model for young and old in the city of Flint, "because she has showed determination and confidence in herself and really stayed focused - let people know that no matter what the challenges are, the issues or circumstances are, they can be overcome."
She has 'put us on the map for something really positive all around the world,' says Weaver of the Olympic champion.
Shields grew up and trained in Flint -- where she bounced between 11 homes by the time she was 12 years old. Weaver says she is proud of Shields for her accomplishments and they are planning on a celebration.