Editing Penn Relays (section)

== History ==

The first Penn Relays took place in 1895, organized by Penn track coach Frank Ellis to promote the sport and attract competitors to Franklin Field. The inaugural meet featured 21 colleges competing in relay events that would become the competition's signature. The event grew rapidly, adding high school divisions, international competitors, and individual events that expanded beyond the founding relay format while maintaining relays as the signature competitions.<ref name="pennrelays"/>

The Penn Relays' growth through the twentieth century made it the nation's premier track and field carnival. World records have been set at Franklin Field; Olympic champions have competed as collegians and professionals; and generations of athletes have experienced the Penn Relays as defining moment in their careers. The meet's longevity and consistent quality have established traditions that connect contemporary athletes to over a century of track and field history.<ref name="pennrelays"/>