WMass rooting for Elena Pirozhkova in the 2012 London Olympics

GREENFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Western Massachusetts will have one of its own competing in the Olympics Thursday.

People are not only excited about the Olympics but they are excited for Elena. They hope that she would bring a medal home for the United States.

Elena Pirozhkova was born in Russia and left with her family to to avoid religious persecution.

"It's just such a wonderful story and I think it's wonderful that she's representing the United States," said Susan Cummings of Bernardston.

Elena started wrestling to help her brother Viktor out by filling the 112 spot on the high school team.  Now she is one of the best in the world, finishing in the top 8 at the last four World Championships.

Michelle Bednarski of Turner Falls says it's wonderful that we have small towns exposed like that in the Olympics.

The mayor, the city and all its residents are so proud of her having her represent the United States and Greenfield," said Mayor of Greenfield Bill Martin.

El Greco Cafe hosted a fundraiser to help Elena's family raise the rest of the money they needed to make the trip to Olympics in London. Now the manager wants to send Elena a message.

"I just wish her well and wish she brings back a medal make another party here to celebrate for it," said Manager Kosta Pitaridis El Greco Cafe.

The qualification round begins Thursday at one o'clock and parts of it will air on the NBC family of stations Olympic coverage.