NEW CONCORD — A year of setbacks did not deter Parker Andrews from reaching Columbus.
The River View sprinter earned state berths in four events — the 100, 200 and 4×200 and 4×400 relays — at a deep and talented Division III regional track and field meet at Muskingum University.
Andrews was part of three record-breaking efforts with a third-place time of :21.71 in the 200, while anchoring both second-place relays, 4×200 (1:29.10) and 4×400 (3:22.84).
Those times are even more impressive since Andrews returned two weeks ago to competition at the Muskingum Valley League championships. He suffered a hip flexor injury during basketball and is still not 100% despite it occurring several months ago.
That setback followed Andrews breaking his collarbone twice during soccer season.
“The process to get healthy has been brutal,” Andrews said. “I’m still getting my body back into running shape. It’s incredible that I still get this chance. The state meet is such a great experience and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to get back.”
His father, Vince Andrews, who coaches him in soccer and track, credited Parker’s “never-quit” approach to his success in athletics.
“He has the desire to work through anything and never gives up,” Vince remarked. “That attitude will carry you far in life. He’s been through plenty of adversity this year, but he has stuck to the plan. That’s the best approach to have no matter what he’s facing.”
Racing strong competition in the league, including Morgan state qualifier Braylon Miller and West Muskingum state qualifier Jaxon Prang, has driven Andrews. He also attributed his teammates’ encouragement in helping him keep a positive outlook. They also were fellow track competitors.
“The competition has pushed me,” Andrews said. “I enjoy running against those guys. We knew we had good relays coming into the season. I wanted to get back for them, and they continue to push me to be better.”
Parker’s example is one that will aid the River View program into the future, Vince stated. His leadership is among the reasons Parker and his teammates have high aspirations at state.
“The younger guys look up to him and want to emulate him,” Vince said. “It’s part of his legacy and helps our program tremendously. He has led by example, and they see his hard work pay off. His goal was to get to Jesse Owens and he’s worked through a lot to get there.”
No one can deny the talent Parker brings to the track. His focus remains on getting healthy and being at his best for the weekend at Jesse Owens Stadium.
The semifinals are Friday, June 5, with running finals on Saturday, June 6.
“As Mr. (Chuck) Rinkes says, ‘leave a legacy,’” Parker remarked. “I’ve tried to set a standard for future River View athletes. There’s a lot left to do, but my goal is to stand on that podium and finish as an All-Ohioan.”
This article originally appeared on Zanesville Times Recorder: Injuries, down time haven’t held back River View’s Parker Andrews
Reporting by Brandon Hannahs, Special to the Times Recorder / Zanesville Times Recorder
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
