Derek Parra

Derek Parra

Derek Parra

Book me today. Call 866-400-2036

Reflections on Ice

...would be great for:

  • -Motivational Speaking Engagements
  • -Men's Retreats
  • -Community Outreach
  • -Corporate Speaker

specialty

Physical Fitness and Sports, Motivational Speaker, Author

bio

84 Derek began roller skating and by 1996 he had become the most decorated athlete in the history of the sport.  On wheels he was a three-time national champion, two-time overall world champion, two-time world record holder and had earned eighteen world championship individual gold medals. He had everything but an Olympic medal.  So in 1996 he switched from inline skates to ice skates to chase after that medal. 

In February of 2001 he had a breakout performance winning a silver medal at the world championships and setting a new American record in the 1500 meters - marking himself as "one to watch at the 2002 Olympic Games".

In Salt Lake City he did not disappoint!  After being selected to carry the World Trade Center Flag into the Opening Ceremonies the emotional evening inspired Derek through a remarkable 5000 meter performance on the opening day of the Games that ended with a silver medal.  That set the stage for a stunning world record finish and  an Olympic gold medal victory in the 1500 meter event!

Derek has gone on to become a seasoned spokesperson, a  highly acclaimed motivational speaker and an award winning international author – all while remaining a dominant force on the world’s speedskating circuit. He looks forward to a repeat performance at the 2006 Olympic Games.  

 

Accolades:

  • -2002 Olympic Gold Medalist – 1500 meters
  • -2002 Olympic Silver Medalist – 5000 meters
  • -World Record Holder – 1500 meters
  • -1998 Olympian
  • -18-Time World Rollerskating Champion
  • -Derek is the first Mexican-American in     Olympic history to ever compete in, and medal in the Winter Games.
  • -Derek’s autobiography, Reflections in the Ice won the 2004 Benjamin Franklin Award for best biography/autobiography/memoir of the year.
  • -Derek is an appointed member of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports