Peaches Roach Findlay

Among those captivated by Hill’s performance was none other than former Jamaican shot putter and 2008 Olympian Zara Northover. Known for her motivational speeches and event hosting, Northover has continued to inspire both nationally and internationally. She recently officiated the wedding of four-time gold medalist Aleen Bailey in November 2023, further cementing her presence in the sports community.

Track historians and sharp-eyed viewers noticed Northover seated in the second row behind social media personality Jordon Howlett. The moment gained an amusing twist when BET host Taraji P. Henson mistakenly honored Howlett with a rose, thinking he was the American food critic Keith Lee. Cameras caught Northover vibing to Lauryn Hill’s music, showcasing her enduring charisma and infectious energy.

Peaches Roach Findley, a former Jamaican high jumper and recent Iowa Hall of Famer, shared her excitement about her best friend's appearance. "When Zara told me she was selected to go to the BET Awards, I watched the night away knowing that the BET Awards camera would find Zara Northover," Roach Findley said. "She has always had a light you can’t deny but notice."

Northover, who owns Moving in Faith, LLC, continues to support and uplift athletes along their journeys. She expressed her excitement about her longtime friend Chelsea Hammond finally receiving her Bronze Medal from the 2008 Olympic Games, where they both competed.

Zara Northover’s presence at the BET Awards highlighted her enduring influence and celebrated her contributions both on and off the field, as she remains a beacon of inspiration within the athletic community.

The Jamaican attended the University of Iowa for four years from 2004-2007 and enjoyed a collegiate career filled with numerous accolades.

She was a four-time All-American, 10-time regional qualifier, a five-time Big Ten Champion and the 2004 Big Ten Freshman of the Year.

Roach-Findlay also still holds the school’s indoor and outdoor high jump records as well as the seventh fastest 60m and 10^th fastest 100m times in school history.

Competing internationally for Jamaica, Roach Findlay won a gold medal in the Heptathlon at the CAC Games in 2010 before returning a year later to cop the bronze medal.

Also in 2010, she narrowly missed out on a medal in the same event at the Commonwealth Games in new Delhi, finishing fourth.

She is also a three-time national champion in the high jump.