88R14781 CW-D
By: Clardy H.R. No. 1077
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The untimely passing of former Olympic track athlete
Eric Thomas of Houston on December 30, 2022, at the age of 49,
brought a heartbreaking loss to his family, friends, and
colleagues; and
WHEREAS, Eric Thomas was born on December 1, 1973, in
Garrison and grew up with the company of five siblings; following
his father's death, his mother raised the children on her own, and
she instilled in Eric a work ethic that would come to define his
life; a standout athlete at Garrison High School, he was awarded
track and football scholarships from Blinn College; his exceptional
ability as a hurdler became evident as a freshman, and the next
year, he set a National Junior College Athletic Association track
record in the 400-meter hurdles; he went on to earn All-American
track honors at Abilene Christian University; and
WHEREAS, One of the top-ranked 400-meter hurdlers in the
world from 1993 through 2003, Mr. Thomas was a U.S. champion, and he
claimed a top-15 finish at the 2000 Summer Olympic Games in Sydney,
Australia; moreover, he collected two silver medals at the Pan
American Games; and
WHEREAS, Following his retirement from track competition,
Mr. Thomas remained actively involved in the sport, founding
Houston-based Champion Trainers in 2005 and conducting sports camps
in Garrison; dedicated to improving the health and fitness of Texas
youth, he established the Eric Thomas Foundation, which provides
scholarships and support to individuals in underserved
communities; he further distinguished himself by creating the
Hurdling Over Obesity and Diabetes program; his generosity and
civic engagement were widely appreciated, and he was beloved by
numerous people in Texans and around the globe; and
WHEREAS, A humble hometown hero who gained international
acclaim, Eric Thomas inspired countless track fans and competitors,
and his many achievements will continue to be remembered and
admired for years to come; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 88th Texas
Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Eric Thomas and
extend deepest condolences to all who mourn his passing; and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for his family and that when the Texas House of
Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Eric
Thomas.