Thousands of athletes compete on Day 1 of the 2025 Penn Relays in Philadelphia
Thousands of athletes and fans were at Franklin Field Thursday as the first day of the 129th running of the Penn Relays got underway at Franklin Field in Philadelphia.
Day 1 certainly has not disappointed. Several times the crowd has been brought to their feet.
Some fans broke out binoculars while others brought a fan.
"I think I handed off in second," said Sebi Hume.
The cheers didn't stop even amongst teammates. Throughout the morning on Thursday, the majority of the events had middle and high school boys taking the track.
"We're just happy to be here, even though we're not coming back tomorrow, but still had a lot of fun," said Tegan Kovacs.
Some 17,000 athletes from 28 countries will compete at the 129th running of the historic meet.
"It was crazy being able to experience such a wide array of kids from all over the world," said Quinn Murphy. "It was really an incredible opportunity to get to race them all."
While their time on the track may be short, it's an experience like no other.
"We have people we know, we cheer for. Even if it's competition," said Tiombe Ewing. "It's like one big happy family and these are like reunions when we come together and we see each other 'cause we all live all over."
Those competing are all different ages, too, not just high school and college kids.
"I tell people I'm 28, but I'm really 50," Ewing said.
"I'm old," laughs Donald Berkeley.
The masters level took over the track in the early afternoon.
"It's a bucket list for me. My daughter ran in high school here, I came as a spectator," Berkeley said. "It's awesome to be on the track. First time. It's hard to put in words, but for me it's a bucket list."
