Forrest Shows Resolve After a Missed Opportunity

LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- University of Louisville junior Makenli Forrest had her shot at improving on her NCAA runner-up finish in the weight throw from last season shattered. She and teammate Gabriella Leon were in Albuquerque, New Mexico preparing for the 2020 NCAA Indoor Championships that were set to begin the next day.

A day of celebrating their hard work and accomplishments during the indoor season with practice and a banquet, suddenly turned to heartbreak. On March 12, 2020 the NCAA canceled all winter and spring NCAA Championships due to the concerns surrounding the widespread health risks associated with coronavirus (COVID-19).

"I am still upset," said Forrest. "I look forward to seeing my coaches and teammates every day. Working out at home is weird."

Forrest was one of just 16 athletes that qualified for the NCAA Indoor Championship in the weight throw. Her throw of 22.11m at the Tyson Invitational ranked 11^th in the nation. She never finished out of the top four during the indoor season.

But knowing her work ethic and resolve, this will just push Forrest to come back even stronger. As a freshman she earned second team All-American honors in the weight throw then followed that up with a runner-up finish her sophomore year.

In the meantime, Forrest continues to work on her degree and staying in shape. She also continues to talk to her teammates daily to keep some sense of normalcy in her life.

"I am continuing to eat right, working out at home, and doing drills in the driveway," said Forrest. "I talk to my teammates every day. They are my family. We snap one another, facetime, and send each other Tik Toks."

She misses going to class and meeting her teammates at Thornton's to eat. Forrest says she misses her daily routine but understands the circumstances.

"This is disappointing but I know this will be for the best," Forrest stated.

Makenli's Favorites
Movie: Remember the Titans
TV Show: Black-ish; The Nanny
Athlete: Serena Williams
Cereal: Frosted Flakes
Candy: Starburst and sour gummies
Food: Chicken Wings
Teams: Atlanta Falcons
Restaurant: Waffle House
Music: Hip Hop and R&B
Class: Biomechanics

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