By Derrick Smith

There are people in our lives that influence us and help shape who we are and who we become. High school student athletes are no different because these role models not only help them grow as athletes, but they also help shape the person that they become for the rest of their life. 

Kara Runnels, a junior at Enid High School, says that there are a few people that have made big impacts on her life, both as an athlete and a person.

“My parents would have to be my biggest influences,” she said. “They both have taught me to always play to my greatest ability and to always keep my head held high even when I’m not doing my greatest.  Tiger West, my second coach, has taught me to push myself and work hard in my sport and to have determination even when I feel like giving up. Last but not least Baylee Woods,my teammate and also a contender of this contest she is the epitome of a positive and great role model, she helps me, she encourages me, gives me insightful tips and helps me improve my game. I may not be the best but I have improved tremendously over the past year and appreciate all the votes that I received but I would like to share this award with my teammate Baylee Woods as she is just as deserving of this award as I am.”

Runnels is a member of the Enid golf team, for which she has played four years. She also attends Autry Technology Center in Enid, where she is working on her future career.

“I am taking Health Careers at Autry Tech,” she said. “My goal is to become a nurse or working specifically with dementia and Alzheimer’s patients.”

Over the years, Kara has enjoyed a solid career on the golf course. She says that while she has enjoyed her career, it has not come without work and sacrifices.

“It has taken a lot of practice for me to get where I am today,” she said. “Also, a lot of hard work, determination, and the drive to succeed. One thing that I have worked hard to remember is that there is always room for improvement to play the best game I can. My best memory on the golf course was when I shot a 98 at the Trosper Golf Course. It was a great round of golf.”