Hydel High School once again proved unstoppable, delivering a commanding performance to close the 129th Penn Relays Carnival in Philadelphia. Their girls’ 4x400m relay team shattered expectations with a sensational 3:30.42 clocking — a new Championship of America record and their fourth consecutive title.
With fierce determination, Natassia Fletcher, Abigail Campbell, Sashana Johnson, and Jody-Ann Daley combined to produce the fastest time seen at the meet since 2001, when Jamaica’s junior national team set the still-standing U20 national record. Hydel’s execution on Saturday places them second on the all-time Jamaican junior list, a remarkable feat for a high school program.
The race wasn’t short of competition. Bullis School from Maryland, boasting a seasoned lineup, pushed hard but had to settle for second at 3:33.30. Jamaican powerhouse Edwin Allen secured third in 3:36.14, with Holmwood Technical and Immaculate Conception also finishing strong in the top six.
Hydel’s achievement not only solidified their place in Penn Relays history but further highlighted the enduring strength of Jamaican youth athletics on the international stage.
