The Gill Athletics Track and Field Connections Podcast21 Huhti 2025

#307: Claire Hewitt-Penn Relays

This week on the 🎙️ Gill Athletics Connections Podcast🎙️ , we dive into the behind-the-scenes world of one of the most historic track meets in the world—the 🏟️Penn Relays🏟️!

Join host **Mike Cunningham** as he sits down with **Claire Hewitt**, the **Director of Operations for Penn Relays and the University of Pennsylvania Track & Field**. Claire pulls back the curtain on what it takes to execute this massive event and shares her fascinating journey through the sport.

In this episode, we discuss:

🏃‍♀️ Claire’s unique running background—from soccer player to collegiate distance runner at Penn

💡 The transition from coaching to operations and how she found her true passion

📅 The meticulous planning that goes into organizing **THE** Penn Relays

🚨 The behind-the-scenes chaos that fans and athletes never see

💪 How the meet continues to evolve while preserving its rich history

Plus, Claire shares some hilarious race-day stories (including a steeplechase moment you won't believe!) and what keeps her motivated year after year.

🎧 **Listen now** to get a fresh perspective on what makes the Penn Relays a can’t-miss event for athletes, coaches, and fans alike!

#PennRelays #TrackAndField #GillConnections #Coaching #Athletics #BehindTheScenes

🌟 Explore Our Library: Dive into 300+ episodes featuring insights from coaching legends such as Boo Schexnayder and Dan Pfaff, Diljeet Taylor (BYU) and Beth Alford-Sullivan, as well as superstar coaches Petros Kyprianou (Illinois), Althea Thomas (Vanderbilt) and many more! Find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and more for your listening pleasure.

📲 Stay Connected: Want to get in touch with our host, Mike Cunningham? Follow on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email at mcunningham@gillathletics.com, or text to 217-898-3038. We love hearing from you! 🎧👍

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