Andre Johnson named grand marshal for RodeoHouston parade

HOUSTON – Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson and defensive end J.J. Watt will be grand marshals at this year’s Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Downtown parade, officials announced Thursday.

“There is no better way to celebrate the kickoff of the Show than to have two of Houston’s very own star athletes leading the way,” said Skip Wagner, president of RodeoHouston. “The show and the Texans share a very special relationship, and to have Andre and J. J. start the parade is definitely a testament to that partnership and each organization’s devotion to the city.”

The Texans ended the 2011 season with a 10-6 record and won a playoff game for the first time in franchise history.

Johnson, drafted by the Texans in 2003, had 13 receptions for more than 200 yards in the team’s two playoff games.

In the team’s wild card playoff game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Watt ran back an Andy Dalton interception for a touchdown, the first of his career. Watt was picked 11th overall in the 2011 draft.

“We are thrilled to have Andre and J.J. represent the Texans in the Rodeo Parade,” said Texans president Jamey Rootes. “The Rodeo has been a great partner since before we even started playing in 2002, and to have two of our stars lead the parade is truly an honor and a great way to cap off a fantastic season for us.”

The rodeo parade will be held Saturday, February 25 at 10 a.m. just after the 25th Annual ConocoPhillips Rodeo Run, which has contributed more than $2.9 million to the show’s educational fund since it began.

The 2012 show runs February 28 through March 18. For tickets and more information, visit RodeoHouston.com.


(khou.com)