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The City of Houston has launched a citywide celebration to honor local athletes returning from the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. This initiative, organized in collaboration with Houston First Corp., Harris County-Houston Sports Authority, and the sports community, aims to welcome home these athletes through various events and celebrations.
The campaign, titled "Welcome Home HOU," captures the spirit and enthusiasm that Houstonians felt as they watched their favorite Olympians compete internationally. Several Olympic athletes have already been warmly welcomed back at Bush Intercontinental Airport by family, fans, and city representatives.
Houston's sports teams and institutions, including the Houston Dash, Houston Astros, Houston Texans, University of Houston, and Rice University, plan to recognize these athletes on their respective platforms. An Olympic-themed parade is scheduled for Thanksgiving Day to honor both current and past Olympians.
Mayor John Whitmire expressed his pride: “I congratulate and welcome home the amazing men and women who represent Team USA. They made us proud as Americans and Houstonians as we watched them compete against some of the world’s greatest athletes. Whether or not they won a medal, they are winners to us."
A series of events will mark this celebration:
- On August 23rd at Shell Energy Stadium during a match against Orlando Pride, the Houston Dash will recognize members of several national soccer teams.
- The Houston Texans will host a special pregame event on August 24th at NRG Park.
- A game between University of Houston and Rice University is scheduled for September 14th at TDECU Stadium.
- The Astros plan an event at Minute Maid Park with details forthcoming.
- The city's iconic Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 28th will celebrate these athletes.
For more information about upcoming events related to this celebration, updates will be available on the Welcome Home HOU website.