Thousands converge for Rodeo Parade

HOUSTON – Colorful floats, trail riders, city officials and marching bands filled Houston's downtown streets Saturday for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Parade.

A record-breaking 15,000 cowboys and cowgirls hit the ground running to kick off the festivities in the ConocoPhillips Rodeo run. As a result, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo education fund will receive a record high $400,000.

As the runners crossed the finish line, the parade began.

Marching bands, dancers, elaborate floats, and Texas royalty all made their way down the city streets surround by an ecstatic crowd.

First time Grand Marshalls Andre Johnson and JJ Watt from the Houston Texans said the experience was more than they could have imagined.

"This is a big deal in Texas, so I'm truly honored." Johnson said.

As the parade came to an end, fans looked forward to the excitement still to come at the 2012 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.