There is someone in each of our lives that makes a lasting impression on us and helps shape us into the person we become. Makynzi Spencer-Friday has a few people like that in her life and she is thankful for each one of them.

“My papaw has been a huge role model,” she said. “He’s always pushing me to be great and helps me when I’m down after a loss, telling me I’ll get it next time. My parents have also always supported me and gave me opportunities to compete at an early age and I appreciate how supportive they are. Also, coach Hall has had a huge impact on my life. He’s always searching for new drills to do and is so invested in track and that it makes me want to be invested. I would also say Coach Lyons because he’s invested so much time and effort into helping me get better and has helped with my mental health.”

Makynzi is a senior at Bristow High School. She plays soccer and runs the 100m, 200m, 4x100m relay, and the 4x200m relay for the track team. Outside of sports, she serves as the vice-president of the National Honor Society, she is also in the Leo Club and the choir.

Throughout her career, Makynzi has invested a lot so that she can reach her fullest potential and be successful.

“It’s taken a lot of hard work and faith,” she stated. “Track is something that you have to work for all your life, but I think the true key to being successful is giving it all to God and leaving your heart on the track. My biggest motivation is wanting to win. Especially since it’s my last year, I’d like to go out with a bang.”

When she steps out to compete in her Bristow uniform, Makynzi knows that she has a lot of support behind her. That makes her proud to represent her school and community.

“It honestly means a lot more than what some people would think,” she said. “I want to go out and make my town and school proud and show others what it means to be a Bristow Pirate and to be a representative of that is so fulfilling.: