Pennsauken High School’s girls’ 4x100-meter team achieved a historic feat at the Penn Relays, setting a new New Jersey record and qualifying for the Championship of America final, despite finishing third overall.

Record-Breaking Performance

Edwin Allen High School from Jamaica won the event with a time of 44.13, securing their second consecutive and 11th overall title. However, the day belonged to Pennsauken High School’s girls’ 4x100-meter team.

The Pennsauken quartet of Summer Schaffer, Sanaya Dupree, Olivia Dupree, and Sianni Wynn etched their names into New Jersey history with their record-breaking run. The team’s success was celebrated with palpable joy and pride.

A Dream Come True

Sianni Wynn, the anchor runner and a national titleholder in the 100 meters, described her experience as a “dream come true.” Summer Schaffer called the moment one of the three peak experiences of her life.

Local Pride and Significance

The team’s proximity to Franklin Field – just a 15-minute drive from their school – added to the feeling of a home-turf advantage. Pennsauken became the first Philadelphia-area team to qualify for the girls’ 4x100-meter Championship of America since 2017.

Wynn expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete against strong Jamaican teams and other states, emphasizing the thrill of participating in such a prestigious event. The team’s reaction to their confirmed time – a resounding scream of joy – resonated throughout the stadium.

Looking Ahead

Saturday’s events promise an exciting showdown in the boys’ 4x100-meter final, with eight of the nine competing teams hailing from Jamaica. Defending champion Excelsior and 2023 winner Jamaica College have qualified, but Calabar will be absent.

The boys’ 4x400-meter races are also set to be a highlight. American schools face a challenge in this event, as no U.S. team has won since Long Beach Poly of California in 2007. The Penn Relays continue to showcase exceptional athletic performances and inspiring stories.