Kendal Hamilton runs track and cross country for the Anadarko Warriors. While running is a large part of her life, she says she did not realize how much she would enjoy it until she moved to Oklahoma.

“I moved here from Florida when I was in the eighth grade,” she said. “While I lived in Florida, I competed in track and volleyball but not cross country. When I moved to Anadarko, I ran cross country for the first time and found out that I had a natural ability. I enjoy it immensely.”

A junior at Anadarko High School, Hamilton is involved in more than just her two sports. She is also a member of the student council, Indian Club, Writing Club, and the National Honor Society. She serves as the secretary of the junior class and she is the founder of the AHS Book Club.

Hamilton has had a number of people that have been influential in helping her become the person that she is today.

“I have a few role models that I look up to,” she said. “Alison Felix is one because of her athletic accomplishments as well as furthering opportunities for women of color. Janee’ Kassanavoid was the first Native American woman to medal on the world stage in hammer throw. Also, my grandfather Delmar Hamilton, because he overcame many obstacles in his life to build a successful career. In his job he has helped thousands of people go to college, he also is always teaching me respect for our Kiowa traditions. And my grandmother June Shakespeare because she was able to balance a modern and traditional life while teaching me our traditional Arapaho way of life.”

Kendal’s success throughout her career is not something that just happened. It has been earned by her hard work and she knows that in order to be her best you have to continually work to get better.

“I have realized that in order to be successful you have to work year around and not just during the season,” she stated. “The support of my coaches, teammates, and my family is highly motivating.”