Competing in a Parallel Parking Contest with a 2012 Mazda 3

An entrant recounts competing in a parallel parking contest, from discovering the event on social media to preparing with music and driving a 2012 Mazda 3 without modern parking aids.

■ Event and selection
- 900 applicants applied, and about 14 to 15 finalists competed.
- Finalists were chosen by the organizer and the PPPA board.

■ Contestant background
- The participant drives a 2012 Mazda 3 with no backup camera or parking assist.
- They rely on looking over their shoulder while parking.
- They submitted an entry immediately after seeing the event shared by friends.

For viewers curious about parking competitions or participant stories, this provides a brief look at the event context and a contestant's preparation and mindset.