Jared Parker (TX) hit by drunk driver

[rainbowgirl28]

http://www.beaumontenterprise.com/sport ... -2009.html

JOHNNIE WALTERS: Parker missed at district track meet
By JOHNNIE WALTERS
April, 13, 2009

The road to another state title came to an abrupt end for Vidor senior Jared Parker last Thursday night.

Three days before Parker was scheduled to compete in the pole vault at the District 20-4A Track and Field Championships, a driver police arrested on an intoxication assault charge hit Parker's Saturn sedan, injuring the pole vaulter and his two friends, Justin Chandler and Clinton Graves. They both are members of the school's basketball team.

"Jared is having surgery as we speak," Vidor junior Chan Smith said from the first day of the district championship meet, held Monday at West Brook. "Pole vaulting was a big deal to Jared, and I know its tough for him not being able to compete. I wish he could have been out here. But I hope they all have a speedy recovery."

Texas Department of Public Safety Trooper Phil Brady told The Enterprise that William Henry Fears III, 44, pulled in front of the car Parker was driving. The accident was on FM 105 near Corbett Street by Pine Forest Baptist Church.

Vidor athletic director Jeff Mathews said Parker sustained two broken bones in his arms, while Chandler had to have a rod implanted in his leg. Graves, who was in the back seat of the vehicle, is still in critical condition.

"The whole school is just in shock," Mathews said by phone. "It's been pretty much silent. Everyone is praying that Clinton makes a smooth recovery."

Parker was the heavy favorite to win the district title. It would have been his third consecutive gold medal.

"I hope he has a smooth recovery," said Ozen junior A'Lexus Brannon, who won the long and triple jump at the district meet. "For the last two years, we have both won regional titles and state titles, so I know it's hard for him not being able to compete."

Parker won his first district title as a sophomore, clearing 14 feet, six inches to set a district record. That same year he won the Class 4A, Region III title followed by a third place finish at the state meet.

His success continued the following year. Parker broke his own district record, clearing 15 feet as a junior. He went on to win another regional title before he won the 4A state championship.

"It think it (stinks) that a drunk driver took away his opportunity to defend his state title," said Vidor junior Mitchell Zehrung. "But I hope he gets well."

[belmore]

This is certainly painful news, Jared appeared to be ready to jump a big bar and compete for gold at state. Bless his heart and I hope his mom is ok, she's his number one fan. Heal up Jared!

[ryanmcright]

Jared, we are praying for you. We met and talked with your dad at Texas Relays.
Please dear God be with the doctors and nurses treating Jared and Lord help him recover and heal him. Please Lord show us a miracle. Amen.