Celebrating global excellence: Birmingham at the Penn Relays
As the University of Birmingham celebrates its 125 anniversary, our focus on international partnerships, student opportunity, and sporting excellence has never been more vibrant. This spirit was brought to life last week as ten student-athletes represented the University at the world-renowned Penn Relays in Philadelphia, USA.
With over 18,000 athletes in attendance—from high school hopefuls to Olympians—the Penn Relays is the largest annual track and field event on the planet. Against this extraordinary backdrop, Team Birmingham delivered some truly remarkable performances.
Record-Breaking Performances on the Track
Two British university records were broken during the trip, showcasing the incredible talent and determination within our squad:
- Men’s Distance Medley Relay
Tyler Bilyard, Ben Gardiner, Thomas Bridger and Sam Davey clocked 9:42.39 to finish 11th and set a new British university record. - Women’s Sprint Medley Relay
Scarlett Thomas-Wright, Izzy Skelton, Bevan McCaffrey and Alice Bennett placed 8th with a time of 3:58.10—another British university best.
There were several other standout performances:
- Ore Adepegba took victory in the Long Jump with a leap of 7.34m.
- Thomas Bridger achieved the World University Games qualification standard in the 3000m Steeplechase, running 8:49.33.
- Scarlett Thomas-Wright recorded a personal best of 11.96 in the 100m heats, breaking the 12-second barrier for the first time.
- Kimani Jack finished 6th in the High Jump, clearing 2.05m.
Celebrating 63 years of Ivy League partnership
The Penn Relays itself marked its 129 anniversary this year—an occasion that made our participation even more meaningful. The University of Birmingham has enjoyed a 63-year exchange partnership with Ivy League universities Penn, Harvard, Yale and Cornell, a relationship originally established by the late Professor Michael Hayes. His legacy was fondly remembered throughout the trip.
A reception held on the Friday brought together a vibrant mix of alumni and academic partners. Among those in attendance were former members of the Athletics Club, including one who had competed at the Penn Relays 50 years ago, and a former student now living in the USA who met her husband when the Yale team visited in 2019. Representatives from Rowan University—our formal exchange partner—joined faculty from the University of Delaware, along with staff from Global Engagement, DARO and UBSport. And, of course, our exceptional student-athletes were at the heart of the celebration.
A personal reflection from Luke Gunn
Reflecting on the experience, Luke Gunn, Head of Performance, said:
“I was absolutely delighted to be able to lead a small but mighty team to the historic Penn Relays this year. I was fortunate to compete here myself 18 years ago and have been very keen to bring a University team back ever since.
In our 125 anniversary, the University is celebrating our wonderful global relationships, including our long-standing exchange with the Ivy League—founded by the late and great Professor Michael Hayes. I know he would have been proud to see us compete so strongly against some of the giants of collegiate athletics.
I’m certain our students have returned with experiences to last a lifetime—and our relationships stateside are stronger than ever.”
An unforgettable cultural experience
Beyond the competition, the team immersed themselves in the cultural and historical sights of Philadelphia. They visited Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, explored the buzzing Reading Terminal Market, ran up the famous Rocky Steps, enjoyed the city’s iconic Philly cheesesteaks, and took in the green spaces of John Franklin Park. These moments offered a chance to bond as a team and experience the rich heritage of one of America’s most historic cities.
Looking ahead
This unforgettable trip embodies what it means to be part of the University of Birmingham during our 125 anniversary: the pursuit of excellence, a global outlook, and the chance to create memories that last a lifetime.
