Roselle Park High School Returns to the Penn Relays After 40 Years

Few events in track and field carry the history, prestige, and energy of the Penn Relays. Hosted annually by the University of Pennsylvania at the iconic Franklin Field, the meet is widely regarded as one of the oldest and most celebrated competitions in the sport. Each year, hundreds of high school teams from across the United States compete alongside collegiate programs, professional athletes, and international teams—particularly from Jamaica and other Caribbean nations.Often called the “Carnival of Track and Field,” the Penn Relays offer a truly unique experience. The atmosphere surrounding Franklin Field is electric, with streets closed to traffic, music filling the air, and food vendors lining the surrounding area. Crowds of more than 40,000 spectators per day pack the stadium during the three-day event, creating an unforgettable environment for athletes and fans alike.This year marks a significant milestone for Roselle Park High School. On Thursday, April 23 (Girls) and Friday, April 24 (Boys), the Roselle Park track and field program will send two 4x100-meter relay teams (1 Girls and 1 Boys) to compete at the Penn Relays. This appearance represents the school’s first participation in more than 40 years, a notable achievement for the program and its student-athletes.Competing on such a historic stage provides Roselle Park’s athletes with a rare and valuable opportunity. Not only will they test themselves against some of the best competition in the world, but they will also experience firsthand the tradition and excitement that make the Penn Relays one of the premier events in track and field.For Roselle Park High School, this return is more than just a race—it’s a moment of pride, progress, and renewed presence on one of the sport’s biggest stages.