Vernon Norwood is a household name in American track and field. But just yesterday, the man was in for a shocker. Yes, Norwood showed up at the Battle on the Bayou in the men’s 200m dash. And guess what, the 2x Olympic gold medalist was in for an upsetting loss against USC collegiate athlete, Garrett Kaalund, who took the first spot, leaving Norwood with the second. While it seemed like a one-off, it gives us the right opportunity to talk about where it all started for Norwood, the hero of this article.

Vernon Norwood has seen it all. The highs and the lows. The man showed up in Tokyo and won his very first Olympic gold in the 4x400m relay. Yet, he did not let the success get to him. He returned back in Paris, humble as ever, and added another Olympic gold to his tally. Yes, this time, the post-Olympic blues got to him. But one thing helped him greatly. Lord almighty! He would pray daily, and so did his mother, who had played quite a role in his career. Here’s your chance to know more about it.

Who is Vernon Norwood’s mother?

Vernon Norwood’s mother’s name is Charliette Ray. She is a single mother who raised Norwood and his brothers alone as a single parent. And in 2005, she took one of the best decisions of her life. Hurricane Katrina forced Norwood’s mother to take the call to shift their family from New Orleans to Morgan City.

A tough woman, she would never get scared of anything. Norwood said, “I’ve never seen my mama under any type of stress or panic — she never showed any of that type of weakness.” But this time she was. However, it turned out for the best. It led Vernon Norwood to discover his speed on the track and paved the way to his athletic career. So in a way, it’s his mother who has played a major role in her son’s rise as an athlete.

Who is Vernon Norwood’s father?

On the other hand, Vernon Norwood’s father’s name is Curtis Norwood. There’s not much known about him. But Vernon Norwood has mentioned that Curtis didn’t really have a very significant presence during Vernon’s growing days. “Single mom three older brothers, dad wasn’t much around,” Norwood once said, recalling his tough childhood. But he had his siblings at least. Here’s more on the kind of bond Vernon Norwood shared with his brothers.

Who are Vernon Norwood’s siblings?

Vernon Norwood’s family dynamic is an aspect of his life that motivates him greatly. He truly looks up to his three older brothers. While the others’ names are not widely publicized, two of the names are, Curtis Ray and Travis Ray. And on their dynamic, Norwood says, “I just want to continue improving and being a better person, better brother, better uncle, better friend.” But do you know, Vernon Norwood’s family, especially his mother, has played a major role in his career. Here’s how.

How Vernon Norwood’s family supported his athletic journey

Well, Norwood’s mother, Charliette Ray, has worked multiple jobs in her life to provide for Vernon and his three older brothers. She pushed a lot to ensure they had food, shelter, and opportunities for a better future. As of 2024, she was working at the Amelia Belle Casino. Also, in his family, every medal of his is celebrated as a collective win. What do you think about this? Let us know below!