In High School: Competed at Del Rio High School for Rams coach Ric Smith...named his school’s male athlete of the year as a senior and top cross country runner...most improved as a senior...team advanced to state meet in cross country in each of his final three seasons finishing in the top 10 each season including fifth as a junior...also competed in track for three seasons.

Personal: Born Ricardo Luis Zapata on Sept. 12, 1989...son of Estela Zapata...has five siblings...plans to major in kinesiology.