IRON RIVER, MI (AP)— The 40-year-old snowboarder who won a gold medal at the Winter Olympics was welcomed as a hero in the U.P. Monday.
A parade was held in Iron River, the home of Nick Baumgartner. Area students were released early from school to prepare for the event.
Baumgartner and partner Lindsey Jacobellis won gold in mixed snowboardcross, an event where snowboarders raced through an obstacle course.
The late afternoon parade led by police escort ended with a reception at West Iron County High School.
Baumgartner has a wide following because of his age, positive attitude, and determination to get a medal in Beijing.
