YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) — The Eastern Michigan University track & field program and Director/Head Coach Sue Parks added another Florida native to the 2021-22 roster today, July 14, with the signing of sprinter Saraiah Walkes (Manatee County, Fla. The Out-of-Door Academy).
"Saraiah is an exciting addition to our sprint group, said Parks. "She had some setbacks at the end of her high school career but she is very motivated to get back to a high level and help elevate our sprint program here at Eastern."
EMU has been very competitive in the Mid-American Conference in sprints and middle distance in recent years. On the women's side, the Green and White have won five individual titles in the 200m, four in the 400m, and five in the 800m across the indoor and outdoor seasons since 2011. At the 2021 MAC Outdoor Championships, the women's team scored in the 100m, 200m, and 400m, May 7-8.
"Saraiah is a very energetic and well-rounded student-athlete," said Associate Head Coach Chris Best. "She had a lot of success in track and field and looks to continue her success here at Eastern. She's very excited to be an Eagle and we can't wait to have her on campus this fall."
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Saraiah Walkes Sprints Fr. Manatee County, Fla.-The-Out-of-Door-Academy
EMU: Joins the EMU track & field program as a freshman...HIGH SCHOOL: Attended The Out-of-Door Academy in Sarasota, Fla. where she competed under Head Coach Rodrick Miller as a member of the Thunder…Seven-time letterwinner participating in the 100m, 200m, 400m, and 800m…Helped team to seven FHSAA State Championships…Career-bests include: 11.97 (100m), 24.17 (200m), and 53.89 (400m)…Competed for the Academy of Maximum Performance (AMP) Track Club…Also played basketball…PERSONAL: Full Name: Saraiah Al'juiria Annetta Louise Walkes…Daughter of Alfred and Monica Walkes…Has seven brothers, Paul, Keiontai, Quaivontay, Alfred Jr, Dashawn, Carter, Elevious, and one sister, Breanna…Major: Business marketing intent.