Interview with ASICS GTC-ELITE's Alison Parris

Alison Parris

Q: How did you decide to move to Greenville? 

AP: My sister (who’s also a runner) heard about GTC-Elite through some of her college teammates.  She mentioned it to me, and I did some browsing on their website.  I applied online and contacted Coach Caldwell.  We had an initial phone interview.  Then, I flew myself down for a visit and met with the coaches and the team.  I loved what I saw – dedicated and passionate coaches, and an immediate support system of friends.  Greenville is a great place to live and train!


Q: Greenville has some great places to eat. What is your favorite?

AP:   Tupelo Honey!  They are known for their Southern comfort food.  I ate there on my first visit to Greenville with coaches Mike & Laura, and current teammate, Kim Ruck.  I’ve been back several times since.  Every dish is delicious!

Q: We understand that our GTC-ELITE athletes have part-time employment positions so that they can gain on-the-job experience and enhance their resumes, while still focusing on their training and racing. You are part of the “Adopt and Athlete Program” and are sponsored by ScanSource?

AP:  Yes, that is correct.  My AM training is supplemented with my PM part-time job in a professional work environment.  Thanks to our team’s President, Bill Keesling, and Coach Mike Caldwell, for helping me network within the Greenville community.  I have been employed part-time with ScanSource since September 2014.  With a background in the HR field, I began working in the HR and Training & Development departments.  In January 2015, I had the opportunity to transition over to the Marketing department.  I’m exploring new territory and gaining experience.  I thoroughly enjoy my coworkers’ sense of humor.  The Marketing folks are a fun and lively bunch!  I am also in the midst of developing a Corporate Shield ScanSource sponsored race.

Q: What is your favorite running shoe?

AP: ASICS Gel Nimbus hands down.  It’s a heavily cushioned shoe, which I like.  I’ve always worn ASICS brand running shoes for their comfort, style and narrow widths.

Q. What is your favorite racing distance?

AP: The 5K because it incorporates both speed and distance.  This is the race my Olympic Trials aspirations center around.

Q: Coffee or Tea?

AP:  I really like both, but if I had to pick one to enjoy for the rest of my life it would be coffee.  A cup or two a day does the trick.  I like coffee both hot and iced!

Q: Favorite meal that you prepare?

AP:   Fish tacos – I use Trader Joe’s fish and Farmer’s Market salsa.  Healthy and yummy!

Q: How many miles do you run each week?

AP:   Currently in the ballpark of 65-70 miles, but our training philosophy is more time-based.  My background is mid-distance running, and I faced injury (piriformis syndrome) with higher mileage in college (JMU).

Q: What is your favorite musical band?

AP:  It’s difficult to pick just one because I have a wide range of musical taste!  My favorite genre is definitely classic rock (thanks Dad!).   Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers would be my first choice.

Q: Favorite song?

AP:   Tom Petty’s, “Refugee” – I blast the song when it comes on the radio while I’m driving. 

Q: Which do you like best: cross country, road racing or track?

AP:  I like cross-country the best because of the grassy fields.  I love soft surfaces and you can’t do much better than grass.  Plus, there’s something about the wide open spaces and natural surroundings that brings me comfort and makes racing seem more effortless.  Although, I’m learning to like road races since there’s usually prize money awarded!J

Q: Favorite training place in Greenville area?

AP:   Well, let’s just say it’s NEAR the Greenville area:  Tuxedo, NC for our weekly long runs.  I absolutely love running there because of the beautiful scenery.  It’s a 9 mile loop around a lake.  There are attractive homes along the route and their structure incorporates nature (natural wood work).

Q: Favorite Farmer’s Market: Downtown or TR?

AP:   Downtown for sure!  There’s a greater vendor selection at the Downtown location.  Plus, Downtown was the one I visited first, and it set the bar high for what a Farmer’s Market should be like!  I love Mercy Verity candles and Daylilies salsas.

Q: Favorite workout session?

AP:   As a former 800m runner, I like speed work on the track.  I generally look forward to 400 repeats on Tuesdays and specific economy on Saturdays (usually 1000m or 1500m).

Q: Favorite aspects of being on GTC-ELITE?

AP:  Always having someone to train with!  I love cross-training on the ElliptiGO, too.  I also enjoy team dinners at Mike & Laura’s house.  

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