Parker Valby, Professional New Balance Athlete & Olympian (With Special Guest Vernon Norwood)

"There are so many ways to get to the start line. There is not one way to do it. You just have to find what works best for you."

Parker Valby was a collegiate phenom. At the University of Florida, Parker set multiple collegiate records in the 5000m and the 10,000m. She earned six NCAA and SEC titles, including five NCAA titles in one year alone. She wrapped up her career as a Gator by competing at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Team Trials, earning a spot on Team USA, and competing at the Paris Olympics, where she finished 11th in the 10,000m final and was the youngest runner in the top 15.

Now, 22-year-old Parker has officially gone pro. She signed with New Balance and joined Team New Balance Boston, where she trains alongside teammates — and fellow Olympians — including Elle Purrier St. Pierre, Heather MacLean, and Emily Mackay.

This conversation was recorded at The TRACK at New Balance during the New Balance Nationals Indoor meet. Enjoy as NB Olympian Vernon Norwood drops in mid-chat and takes over hosting duties!

FOLLOW PARKER @parkervalby

FOLLOW VERNON @vernon400m

IN THIS EPISODE:

Does Boston feel like home? (2:40)
Can Parker still do a split? (4:00)
On adjusting to life as a professional athlete (6:30)
Parker’s experience joining Team New Balance Boston (7:30)
What Parker was like growing up, and how her dad became her agent (10:35)
Parker’s “going pro” support network (16:45)
Is it hard to be the best? (18:20)
What it was like winning the Bowerman Award — and just how much it weighs (23:55)
What it was like making her pro debut at New Balance Indoor Grand Prix (26:00)
All about Team New Balance Boston and coach Mark Coogan (31:10)
Parker’s preferred methods of cross training (39:45)
What it’s like getting recognized on the run in Boston (48:00)
Vernon Norwood takes over hosting duties (59:00)

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