Norwood stops in area on way to Europe for Olympics

Vernon Norwood enjoyed a day with his mom and brothers Saturday in Morgan City as he awaits officials word that he'll part of U.S. Olympic team

The official announcement is scheduled for Monday. But Norwood and others have reportedly been notified that they'll be part of the U.S. team's relay pool for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, which begins next month.

Norwood won a gold medal as a member of the 4x400 men's relay and a bronze for running in the mixed 4x400 at the Tokyo Games in 2021.

Norwood, nicknamed Tootie during his days at Morgan City High, visited in Morgan City as he prepares to leave Monday for Europe. He will run in races in Monaco and London before he makes his way to Paris.

Norwood picked up his mom, Charlette Ray, from her worksite at the Amelia Belle Casino before heading for a family lunch at the Atchafalaya at Idlewild restaurant in Patterson.

They were joined by his brothers, Curtis Ray and Travis Ray

Norwood won his preliminary heat in the men's individual 400 meters in the Olympic trials in Eugene, Oregon. In the finals, he finished fourth, one spot out of the top three who qualified for the 400 meters.