Parker Lecates

Which sport(s) do you play?  Cross Country & Track

What school do you attend?  Legacy HS

How long have you competed and what motivated you to get involved in your sport?  This is my fourth year of competing and I am motivated by my friends that convinced me to run my freshman year.

What do you like most about your sport(s)?  It is an individual sport so it is up to me to either win or lose.

What is your favorite sport to watch on TV and why?  Basketball, because there is a lot of scoring involved.

Who is your favorite athlete or person you draw inspiration from? Why do you draw inspiration from this person?  Ryan Hall; he is such a great runner and I love how he runs with the best of the best even though he is young.

Do you think that being an athlete helps or hinders you with your academic studies? It helps because it keeps you motivated. You can’t compete unless you have received the grade requirements. I currently have a 4.18 GPA and it is from my athletic and academic work.

What is the biggest challenge for a student/athlete?  Making choices that will affect my future. I always want to make sure I am making the right choice. The most recent challenge is choosing a college and a career.

Do you plan on pursuing your sport at the college level?  I plan on pursing it for the rest of my life. The college level will just be a part of it.

Please list any accomplishments you are proud of achieving in your sport:  Qualified for the High School State Championship in 2007 and made varsity squad all four years for both sports. Won the U.S. Paralympic Nationals in the 5000m and took second in the 1500m.

Fun Questions**

Do you have a favorite saying? At one point during the race you need to decide, do you really want it? Only you can decide.

What is your favorite food? Pizza

Favorite show on TV?  Man vs. Wild

Favorite movie?  Fred Clause

Any other comments that you think may be necessary for this questionnaire?  U.S. Paralympic Academy and Blaze Sports Las Vegas have given me the opportunity to run across the country, which I never thought would be possible.