Sandra Parker, Runner

FAMILY: Husband Seth, two teenagers, and two cats.

HOMETOWN: I’m a Navy brat, but I lived most of my life in WA state. We moved to Southaven about four years ago.

I f RUNNING: I enjoy making and working hard to accomplish goals. However, once I accomplish a goal, I start thinking about what I can achieve next.

BUCKET LIST: The 50 miler at Tunnel Hill.

UP NEXT: I’m finishing the MRTC WORS, signed up for the Big Buffalo as part of a relay team, and the Hoof it for Heifer 20k in April. My goals this year are to shave a few seconds off my 5k and a few minutes off my marathon time and complete my first 50-miler at Tunnel Hill.

FAVE FITNESS ACCOMPLISHMENT: Big Buffalo 50k. I loved having my NME team help me. I am so lucky to be a part of an amazing group of people.

SPEED BUMPS: I get terrible race anxiety, but I know the anxiety is just that. The post-race feeling is awesome.

MY GROUP: I am a member and current Secretary of North Mississippi Endurance (NME). I participate in the Monday night Grivet run, and the Desoto Runners’ Club run on Saturday morning. I’ve also run with the Trail Trippers.

FAVORITE JAMS: “All I Do Is Win” by DJ Khaled is a great mood boost to finish a race.

RECENT RACES: So far in 2023, I’ve run the first two in the MRTC WORS series (1st place AG in 3k and 2nd place AG in 5k) and the Village Creek 25k.

BINGE-WATCHING: The Offer, Dance Moms, and RuPaul’s Drag Race.

BEST EATS: Las Delicias guacamole is the best!

DREAM DINNER COMPANY: Lizzo - her music is so fun and positive, and I like how she encourages people to love themselves just as they are.

GO-TO GEAR: I love my Saucony Endorphin Speed 3s, my go-to fuel is Hüma Gels, and I’ve recently switched to an Apple Ultra Watch.

QUOTE: “Different strokes for different folks” - unknown