RAYMOND GRAHAM, STAR Writer

FRANKLIN FIELD, PENNSYLVANIA:

THE University of Technology closed out one of the best overall performances by Jamaicans in the history of the Penn Relays, which ended here on Saturday.

Elaine Thompson ran an impressive third leg as the women captured the 4x200 metres. After the first two legs from Shimarya Williams and Chanice Bonner, UTech was behind powerhouses Texas A&M and Louisiana State University, but Thompson put her team in front. The talented Shericka Jackson took them to victory in 1:30.80, ahead of Texas A&M (1:31.17) and LSU (1:32.38), and G.C. Foster College fifth (1:34.63).

With Janeive Russell being handicapped with an injured toe, UTech was courageous in the Women's 4x400m where they finished second in 3:31.34.

University of Texas defended their title in 3:29.46. Here, Jackson clocked 51.5 on her third leg to give Russell a slight lead, but the injury took a toll.

UTech failed to defend their Sprint medley title. The quartet of Bonner, Williams, Russell, and Samantha James settled for fourth in 3:50.71. University of Oregon won in 3:44.59.

Clemson University, coached by Jamaican Mark Elliot, was second in 3:44.71. Jamaicans Olivia James and Natoya Goule ran the opening and anchor legs.

UTech was unfortunate in the 4x100m. They were favourites after qualifying fastest, but pulled out after Christania Williams was injured in warm-up.

The men successfully defended the 4x100m and 4x200m.

Andrew Fisher, Julian Forte, and Kemarley Brown featured in both races.

Tyquendo Tracey anchored the 4x100m team which remained unbeaten this season in 39.27 seconds. Texas A&M was second in 39.56. G.C. Foster finished third in 40.26.

Kevean Smith joined UTech in their 4x200m win (1:20.97). G.C. Foster made it one-two for Jamaican institutions, second in 1:23.02.

Marvin Williams of St Elizabeth Technical helped cap the day by winning the 400m hurdles in the fourth best all time of 51.50.