Manuel Guara

He leaves behind his wife of 57 years, Elsie Dobal Guara; his daughter, Annette and husband Tom Hurst; his son, Manuel Guara, Jr. and wife Lola; and son Marcus Guara and wife Anaely. As well as his beloved grandchildren – Cecilia, Christina, Carolina, Tommy and Lucia.

Born and raised in Valencia, Spain, the son of Jose Guara and Elvira Nadal Guara. Throughout his life and career he lived in Barcelona, Madrid, Guernica, Spain; Havana Cuba; Mexico City, Mexico; Hartford CT; and Miami FL, where he has primarily lived since 1965.

“Guarita” grew up during the Spanish Civil War, and was only able to attend school occasionally. This did not deter his nor his brother's “Pepe" from practicing the sport of Jai-Alai which landed them both with professional contracts in Barcelona, Madrid, and finally in Havana Cuba in 1950.

During his time in Havana, “Guarita” was considered not only one of the best Jai-Alai players of his generation, but of all times. He was crowned World’s Champion in 1955, and played in several tournaments around the world and for heads of state including Francisco Franco of Spain.

After his retirement as a player in 1970, he worked for 10 years in the paramutual industry, until he was given an opportunity to be the Player’s Manager for Berenson’s Hartford Jai-Alai. He led the Hartford Jai-Alai roster to become one of the elite frontons in the sport from 1980-1993. He also acted as interim PM at Dania Jai-Alai the 90s.

His hobbies included golf, which he played weekly with his close friends; cooking, and was renowned for, among other dishes, his Paella Valenciana; Soccer, particularly the Spanish League; and any sport his children & grandchildren would participate in, which were his passion.

“Guarita” was probably best known for his sense of humor, and infectious smile. He made friends quickly, and kept friends forever. He was the BEST!

A funeral service was held on March 21, 2011 at Funeraria Memorial Plan Coral Gables, followed by a Mass at St Thomas the Apostle Church, and a private burial.