October 17, 2025 – Two-time Olympian and Clovis native Jenna Prandini returned to her roots at Mickey Cox Elementary on Friday, inspiring a new generation of “Cowboys” with a message of perseverance and the launch of a special book project. Students gathered in the same assembly space Prandini once did, listening intently as the track star shared personal stories of overcoming fear and the importance of chasing big dreams.
The visit centered on the debut of “Clovis on Tour,” an animated book that features Prandini as a tour guide exploring the unique landmarks and character of Clovis. During a special presentation, the story was shown on a projector, captivating the young audience.
In a heartfelt Q&A session with students from each grade level, Prandini was open and relatable. She confessed to getting so nervous before track meets at Mickey Cox that she would cry and even throw up. “Everyone gets nervous before they do something big, and being nervous is a good thing,” Prandini told the students, encouraging them to embrace challenges.
When asked about trying new things, she recounted being “super nervous” to try out for the school play, “The Wizard of Oz,” and how glad she was that she pushed past her fear, eventually landing the part of the Wicked Witch.
“Don’t be afraid to do something that you think is super hard because when you guys do hard things that’s how you get to your goals and never give up,” Prandini advised. “The only person that has to believe in your dream is you.”
The assembly was also a reunion. Prandini’s former teachers and coaches were invited to the stage and recognized for their influence on her journey from a Mickey Cox student to a silver medalist in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
The inspiring visit concluded with a major surprise. As part of a larger initiative, Prandini is providing a copy of “Clovis on Tour” to every third-grade student in all seven Clovis High area elementary schools. Additionally, each teacher will receive a copy, and one will be placed in the Mickey Cox library.
Proceeds from the book, priced at $15, will go to the Dream Big Project, Prandini’s non-profit organization dedicated to funding health and fitness programs for local children.
For those who missed the school visit, Prandini announced that she will be at Clovis Night Out on Saturday, October 18. She and the book’s main character, Jenna, will be at the trolley to sign books and take pictures with attendees.