Sugar Land hosts celebration for return of 2 Olympians

SUGAR LAND, Texas – The city of Sugar Land hosted a Welcome Home Celebration for Simone Manuel and Steven Lopez on Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Sugar Land Town Square.

The two Olympians competed in the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Manuel won gold medals in the women's 100 freestyle and 4x100 medley and silver in the women's 50 freestyle and 4×100 freestyle relay.

Lopez is a two-time gold medal winner and competed in his fifth Olympics in Rio. He is also the winner of five world championships and holds the distinction of being the most decorated athlete in taekwondo history.

The community-wide celebration will showcase the city’s pride and appreciation of the hard work and dedication displayed by these athletes while competing on a worldwide stage. The city is working with the Fort Bend Independent School District, First Colony Swim Team coaches and swimmers, the Lopez family and other community groups and individuals to welcome back the Olympians.

The event will include a short ceremony, photos, community booths and activities and meet and greet areas for both athletes with autograph signings available.