Cole Parker is a junior on the Dowagiac cross country team.

What has been one of your greatest accomplishments as an athlete?

CP: Breaking 16:30 in the 5K my first year of cross country.

What has been one of your biggest disappointments as an athlete?

CP: Probably running an 18:30 at Steve’s Run.

Who is a “hero” in your life and why?

CP: My mother, she introduced me to running. She supports me in everything I do and wants to see me be the best version of myself

When are you the most nervous while you are competing?

CP: The night before an important race.

Describe an embarrassing athletic moment.

CP: During a few long runs, (runs where I go 12 to 14 miles). I’ve had to stop by the side of the road and use the bathroom. Not the most enjoyable experience.

How do you tend to workout/train when by yourself?

CP: Lots of mileage. two to three times a week I wake up at 5:15 a.m. and run before school.

What other sport would you like to compete in if you were not playing yours?

CP: Soccer.

Why are sports an important part of a high school experience?

CP: They give you a chance to feel that sense of belonging. Sports are not just games, but a way to bond and make lifetime friendships.

How would you give away $50,000?

CP: I would take the $50,000 and repair the track so we could have home track meets.

If you could be the head coach of a team for a year, what team would you choose?

CP: Bowerman Track Club.

If I did not play sports, I would…?

CP: Dedicate the time I spend running to studying and bettering myself as a student.

What is the most challenging thing for you to do in your sport?

CP: Racing. It’s obviously physically difficult, but nothing compares to the mental fortitude you must have as a distance runner.

If you could change one rule about your sport, what would it be?

CP: At bigger meets I think it would be better to have more space in between the start boxes. There is a lot of elbowing and shoving at the start of a packed race.

What is the best compliment you have ever received?

CP: “Those shorts are nice. Are they your sisters?”

What was the scariest thing you have had to do? Are you glad you did it?

CP: This summer when I was in New Orleans, I had to run still. I went through some sketchy areas that were a little risky. Yeah, I am glad I did it.

What was the last thing you saw someone do that really impressed you?

CP: Kipchoge breaking the two-hour marathon barrier.

What is your favorite hobby? Why?

CP: Cooking. I like food and it is fun to experiment.

Choose one word to describe yourself:

CP: Dedicated.