Kinkaid’s track team made a strong showing at the 2025 Texas Relays in Austin, Texas, last weekend. Held annually at the University of Texas, the event brings together some of the nation’s top high school and collegiate athletes. Kinkaid sent 17 athletes—nine girls and eight boys—to compete in various relays and individual events.
The excitement in the stadium was undeniable, with the roar of cheering helping athletes push themselves before a packed crowd. “The stadium was filled, so many people came to watch,” said sophomore Maya Bernal, reflecting on the energy at the meet. “The noise from the crowd made the team really hype.”
The girls’ team raced in the 4×1, 4×4, and 4×8 relays. Senior Penelope Gustafson competed in both the 4×1 and 4×4, running the first leg in both races. “I had so much fun at Texas Relays,” she said. “We’ve had a lot of ups and downs to get here, but I was confident in the team. It was just another opportunity for us to see what we’re capable of.”
“I left everything on the track,” Gustafson said. She gave her all in both events, setting an example for her teammates.
Sophomore Wayne Shanks competed in the open 100-meter, 4×1, and 4×4 relays. It was Shanks’ first time competing at Texas Relays, and he was hopeful of achieving his personal best while setting goals for improvement in both his individual events and relays. “I enjoyed the meet this weekend,” he said. “It was a great opportunity to showcase my talents.”
Senior Emily Camp talks about her time at Texas Relays. “It was a super rewarding experience. It was so cool to see so many athletes competing in the same place. Camp’s favorite part was “having a lot of fun with my favorite people!”
The Kinkaid athletes left the Texas Relays with valuable experience and renewed focus for the rest of their season. They are ready to apply what they learned to upcoming meets and competitions.
