James Clemens' Zaria Parker is this week's Athlete of the Week! At the 1A-7A Cullman Classic, she ran a state lead in the 100m 12.08 and 25.12 in the 200m.
Tell me about this past weekend! Great weekend overall with a State lead in the 100m.
Last weekend was an all round pretty good meet. I took home 2 gold medals in the 100m and 200m and was happily supporting my teammates. My coach and I have analyzed the videos of my races and know what needs improvement. We have been putting in the work needed for brighter future races. Even though I have the state lead does not mean that the grind ends. I will continue to push myself to be better!
What were some of the things you highlighted to work on?
Some of the things I am refining are my start, understanding the amount of force I use during races, and driving out of the blocks.
What was your introduction into track?
Well, a lot of people think that since my mom and grandfather ran track, they forced me to run it, but it was actually the opposite. My mom didn't want me to run it because of how much time and commitment it took. Since a young age in middle school, I wanted to run it, so as soon as my school offered it I joined!
What do you like to do when you're not running?
While I'm not running, I like to be out and about hanging out with friends and family. However, if I'm at home I like gaming, cooking, baking, and crocheting.
What games are you playing? And what was the last "Zaria Parker special" you cooked or baked?
Recently I've started playing Elden Ring on my gaming console. Also, homemade creole gumbo would have to be my last special I've cooked. It's delicious!
Amazing! Have you started the college recruiting process?
I've visited a few colleges for regular visits but have not been on any track visits yet.
What do you plan on studying?
I plan on studying business and entrepreneurship, along with finance.
What's your most memorable track meet?
My most memorable track meet was when I hit 24 in the 200 for the first time at sectionals last year. It was amazing! I got first place and a lot of my teammates PRd as well, so we were all happy.
If you could have a dream 4x1 (with non track celebrities) who would it be?
If I could have a dream 4x1, I would have the Flash because of his speed, Spider-Man because we can put his webs to use, and Road-Runner!
What's your go-to cheat meal?
My go-to would be cajun ranch fries with wings but a seafood boil with a lot of butter, garlic and seasoning...also amazing
What are some big goals you're chasing through Outdoor?
This outdoor season, lowering my times and maintaining a healthy and focused mental state throughout this season are big goals of mine.
Is there any specific time goal?
Sub 12 seconds in the 100 and Sub 24 in the 200.
Who is an AL athlete you look up to?
I've actually narrowed it down and the Alabama athlete I look up to is my mom, Oriana Brown (Carter), when she was running in high school at Ramsay High School and college at UAB.
Catch Zaria Parker back in action at the Arab Thursday "Knight" Invitational running the 100m and the 200m.
