ROCKMART, Ga. — "It's a small town, but it's got a lot of heart. everybody knows everybody, and it brings everybody together."
Thousands showed up this week to support Georgia's Olympic medalist and promising gymnast Brody Malone in Rockmart.
Linda's Place in Rockmart is where the competition is fierce for the best dish. But, during the men's team finals, people crowded to watch them as their very own took the big stage in Paris, representing the small town that has "got a lot of heart."
Although he did not have a great start at the qualifiers, he showed up for his team, steadily earning points and helping the U.S. men take home a bronze medal, earning his first Olympic medal in his career.
The win ended a 16-year drought for the USA men's gymnastics team. According to NBC News, it's the first time since 2008 that Team USA men's gymnastics made it to the podium, making history. They were behind Japan and China in the 2024 Games.
His former gymnastics coach, Justin Grant, said Brody's team win is cooking up inspiration for kids across the Peach State.
"I’ve worked with thousands of gymnasts. But he’s that special breed. From day one, I knew he was something special. I can’t say that I’m surprised. He’s always been at the top of the food chain – always finishing at the top," said Grant.
Malone is the Team USA captain for the men's gymnastics team and will be cheering on the two members of Team USA who are competing in individual apparatus events this weekend.
Some supporters are considering throwing a big parade for the gymnast, who showed up not only for his team but also for his small town.
