Makoto Hagiwara is a supporting character in the anime Monkey Turn, a series centered on the world of competitive hydroplane racing. She is a professional racer who competes in the challenging races that require navigating obstacles at high speed. Hagiwara is depicted as a highly skilled and determined athlete who quickly rises through the ranks to become one of the top competitors. Her primary goal is to win the premier race known as the monkey turn, a demanding hairpin maneuver that she executes with precision. She is constantly striving to improve her racing techniques and develop new strategies to gain an edge over her rivals.

Despite her intense focus and ambition, Hagiwara also possesses a gentle and compassionate nature. She cares deeply about her friends and fellow racers and is always willing to offer help when someone is in need. This combination of skill, determination, and kindness makes her a respected figure among her peers. Her role in the story primarily involves inspiring the protagonist, Kenji Hatano, who witnesses her performance and is motivated to master the sport himself. Hagiwara exemplifies perseverance and dedication, demonstrating that hard work and a clear sense of purpose can lead to the achievement of even the most difficult goals. Her notable ability is the execution of the monkey turn itself, a tight hairpin turn that showcases her mastery of the boat and the course. Over the course of the series, she remains a steady and reliable presence, embodying the values of discipline and sportsmanship within the competitive racing world.