Penn Relays run into Philly at the end of April

by Renee Di Pietro perspective editor

The 2002 Penn Relays, the oldest and largest relay carnival in the world, is right around the corner. This year the Penn Relays ·is ce~ebrating its 108th running on Thursday, April 25, Friday, April 26 and Saturday, April 27.

The relays always fall on the last weekend of April with this year being no different. Talented athletes from local schools, the region, state and other countries will be competing in the track and field events, as well as special events that are conducted every year.

The popularity of the Penn Relays has grown with age. Last year over 48,000 people packed into the stands for the final day of the relays. The city markets and parking lots surrounding Franklin Field were mobbed by the crowds of fans and competitors. All over University of Pennsylvania's campus, relay teams were spotted as they warmed up for their events

Last year, Olympic champion runner Michael Johnson, the five-time Olympic gold medallist, nine-time World Championship gold medalist and 200 and 400 meter world record-holder was given a standing ovation after helping the U.S. team finished at 2 minutes, 58.60 seconds in the 4x 400 meter relay. It was his last race at the relays.

Johnson retired at the end of the season. Chants of "USA"