texasmonthly.com: What does it mean to you to be from Texas?
Marshevet Hooker: I love it here. I’ve heard people say it’s hot and there aren’t white Christmases, but I love it. There’s all-around nice weather. The people here are really friendly and easy to get along with. If you want to have a good time and meet nice people, Texas is an all-around nice place.
texasmonthly.com: What sold you about the University of Texas?
MH: It’s the combination of academics and the best athletics. All I can do is just get better there.
texasmonthly.com: How does it feel to be compared to Olympic runner Marion Jones?
MH: It’s nice to know people see a lot for me in the future. I like being compared to her.
texasmonthly.com: Do you feel pressure when people draw such comparisons?
MH: No. All I can do is give my best and keep trying hard.
texasmonthly.com: What goes through your head when you get to the starting blocks?
MH: The first thing I do is I thank God for letting me be there and letting me do this. And then I just think, “Go to the finish line, go to the finish line.”
texasmonthly.com: What’s your first track-and-field memory?
MH: It was a church track meet in San Antonio. I think I was in the sixth grade, and there were no other girls to compete against in my class, so I ran with the high schoolers. My mom was afraid and didn’t want me to do it. She thought I’d be upset if I didn’t do well. But I ran and came in fourth. That really sparked me. That’s one of my fondest memories.
texasmonthly.com: What have your parents taught you?
MH: My parents always tell me never to give up, and it doesn’t matter if you win the race, just don’t give up.
texasmonthly.com: What are your goals for the future?
MH: First, I want to graduate high school and keep up my GPA. And then just have a good season, run well and hopefully make it to state and try to make the World Team again this summer. Then go to college and enjoy myself; compete well and keep learning.
