“The road to success is not easy to navigate, but with hard work, drive and passion it’s possible to achieve it”‐ Tommy Hilfiger.

September 2nd, 2000 marked the date that my mother gave birth to her first baby girl. This spontaneous, outgoing, talented girl was given the name Devine Alana Parker, born and raised on the island of Freeport, Grand Bahama to Delvin and April Parker. I have two siblings, Dylan and Destin Parker. I am a proud early qualifier of the 2016 Carifta Games, and specialize in both the 100m and 200m races. I am thrilled to be a part of Bahamas High Performance, which is coached by the Bahamas’ golden girl, Pauline Davis‐Thompson and Nick Dean.
                          My talent in track and field was first noticed by my primary school physical education teacher, Mr. Delaney. In the first grade, I won my first trophy for track and field and Mr. Delaney insisted to my mother that she place me in this sport because this was an area that I would excel in. After participating in track events, I eventually noticed that I had an interest for the sport and this was something that I would like to pursue. Mr.Dwayne Jennings, Mr.Ravanno Ferguson, Mr. Shaun Miller and Pauline Davis Thompson. Respectively, all coached me and had some input on my road to success. Their influence on me was great and is still great and encourages me one day to maybe follow in their footsteps.
                       My favorite athlete is Usain Bolt because he is fast, focused and a hard
Worker. Watching Usain pursue his career, I observed how confident he is, and how he executes. Every single race he motivates me to continuously push. I’m inspired by all athletes who are passionate, humbled and dedicated. Track and field is providing so many opportunities and I’m so grateful for everything so far in my career. I am in the graduating class of 2018 and I aspire to attend a division one college, and be able to represent my country in the IAAF World Championships and Olympics.
                     Special recognition is given to my beloved family members in Freeport, Grand Bahama, who keeps me motivated and constantly reminds me to always strive for greatness. I would also like to acknowledge Mr. Winston Marshall, who first recognized me and gave me an opportunity. Thanks and appreciation goes to my coaches Pauline Davis‐Thompson and Nick Dean who also pushes, motivates me and also contributes to my career. Also, I would like to give recognition to Mr. Curt Hollingsworth, and Mrs. Shayne Sweeting. From the bottom of my heart I would like to thank Mr and Mrs Gray for also being my support system, to my parents who sacrificed much for me and finally to my grandfather, Wes Butler, who encourages me to always keep God first in my life and to always remind me that once I put my mind to it, I can achieve anything.
                      Conclusively, I am a hardworking, passionate and focused young athlete. I believe that anything is possible once you work hard and love what you do. I’ve come across obstacles that try to stop me, and I never will give up.  I will always keep God first in my life and always thank him for giving me this talent.