The Penn Relays Begin at Penn: A Tradition Rooted in Speed, Culture, and Diaspora Pride

The Penn Relays have officially begun at the University of Pennsylvania—my alma mater—and once again, the historic Franklin Field is alive with the spirit of one of the oldest and most prestigious track and field events in the Americas. Hosted annually by Penn Athletics, the Relays are more than just a sporting event—they are a cultural moment, especially for the Caribbean diaspora.

You simply cannot mention the Penn Relays without mentioning Jamaica in the same breath. Jamaicans have long been dominant and enthusiastic participants, from high school standouts to collegiate champions. The relays serve as a proving ground for emerging talent and a showcase of track royalty.

I remember one year when I had the privilege to volunteer at the games. It was a moment I’ll never forget—I met the likes of Bill Cosby, the Hon. Portia Simpson Miller (Jamaica’s first woman Prime Minister), and track legends such as Asafa Powell, Usain Bolt, and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce. The electric atmosphere, the sound of cheering crowds, and the buzz around potential stars from across the U.S. and Caribbean left an indelible mark on me.

Renaldo McKenzie with Bill Cosby in 2011 at the Penn Relays

Yet, something feels different this year. While the 2025 Penn Relays have kicked off with their usual modest energy, there’s a noticeable lack of media coverage and buzz. Surprisingly, many locals in Philadelphia I spoke to either weren’t aware the Penn Relays were happening or didn’t know what the event was at all. This is a stark contrast to years past, when the city would buzz with anticipation and pride.

Still, the Caribbean diaspora and college track athletes from around the country are already making their way to the city, bringing with them a growing excitement that’s starting to creep in. Although mainstream media has yet to fully engage, the passion of the people remains. A quick keyword search or hashtag scroll for “Penn Relays 2025” yields only a handful of results—disappointing for such a historic event.

We remain hopeful that as the week unfolds, coverage will swell and the attention this event deserves will return. In these turbulent and uncertain times, we need events like the Penn Relays. They offer catharsis and community—a moment to celebrate excellence, heritage, and unity.

Between the NBA playoffs and the Penn Relays, there’s a lot to look forward to this week. Stay tuned—The Neoliberal Round and our YouTube channel may bring you interviews, event highlights, and the heartbeat of the city and its athletes as the games progress.

Until then,

Renaldo C. McKenzie
The Neoliberal

Renaldo McKenzie is Author of Neoliberalism, Globalization, Income Inequality, Poverty and Resistance, President of the Neoliberal Corporation, The Neoliberal, and Creator and Host of The Neoliberal Round Podcast and YouTube Channel.

Renaldo is also a two-time graduate of The University of Pennsylvania and currently a Professor at Jamaica Theological Seminary and a Georgetown Liberal Studies Fellow.

The Neoliberal Round YouTube channel will be present to capture some of the games live. Subscribe

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