Wake Forest University Track and Field: The Road Ahead
A Competitive Spirit Ignites in Raleigh
Winston-Salem, N.C. – The Wake Forest Demon Deacons track and field team is gearing up for an exciting challenge at the Raleigh Relays this weekend, hosted at NC State’s Paul Derr Track. This event marks a pivotal moment as the Deacs look to carry the momentum from their outdoor season opener in High Point, N.C. With a roster comprised of talented athletes, the stakes are high and the atmosphere is electric.
Midyear Recognition and Rankings Boost Confidence
On March 25, the USTFCCCA announced the midyear updates, revealing that the Men’s Track and Field Team has achieved an impressive No. 13 ranking in the coveted Program of the Year standings. This recognition serves not only to inspire the athletes but also highlights the depth of talent present in the program. Fans and spectators alike can look forward to witnessing powerful performances as these athletes take center stage.
Must-See Events at the Raleigh Relays
The Raleigh Relays offer an exhilarating lineup over the course of three days:
- Thursday, March 27: Events kick off at 9:15 a.m.
- Friday, March 28: The action resumes at 11:45 a.m.
- Saturday, March 29: The competition concludes with races beginning at 12:40 p.m.
Fans can catch all the action streamed online via Flash Results, where live updates will keep everyone informed.
Star Athletes Ready to Shine
Rocky Hansen: A Rising Star on the Track
After a sensational 2025 indoor season, Rocky Hansen is set to dazzle spectators as he competes in the 5000m. With a remarkable finish at the NCAA Championships—securing third place—Hansen not only earned first-team All-American honors but also cemented his place in NCAA history as the fourth-fastest American performer in the event before turning 21. Currently ranked No. 3 nationally, Hansen aims to channel his indoor success into another standout outdoor performance.
Emma Douglass: Versatile and Vicious
Also joining the Deacs this weekend is senior standout Emma Douglass, who will be showcasing her incredible range by participating in both the 1500m (Friday) and the 800m (Saturday). Douglass is coming off a stellar indoor campaign where she shattered the Wake Forest indoor record in the 800m with a blistering time of 2:03.95 at the Eagle Elite Invitational. Expect thrilling races as she seeks to set new personal bests outdoors.
New Faces and Notable Debuts
Joe O’Brien, a dynamic junior, is prepping for his first run in the 10,000m. After an impressive performance in the 5000m last season, O’Brien is ready to conquer new challenges. Meanwhile, graduate student Rylan Engels will join Douglass in the 1500m on Friday.
On the women’s side, sophomore talents Brooke Wilson and Angelina Perez are primed to compete in the 5000m, offering fans a promising glimpse into their evolving skills.
Throwing Down the Gauntlet: Field Events Await
Both Jacob Goldberg and Isabella Gera are set to showcase their prowess in field events as they return for their second outdoor competition this year. Goldberg’s recent performance includes a second-place finish in hammer throw, reaching a distance of 59.82m, while Gera made significant strides in both shot put and hammer throw, earning noteworthy finishes last weekend.
And let’s not forget freshman sensation Kristyna Peterova, who dominated her debut in High Point with a hammer throw of 50.87m.
Marking Milestones: Top-10 in History
The 2025 outdoor season has seen Wake Forest athletes setting themselves apart, with a collection of top-10 performances etched into the school’s history. Witnessing these young athletes thrive not just inspires pride within the community but also sets a robust foundation for future Deacs on the rise.
Next Steps: Competing in High Point
Looking ahead, the Demon Deacons will return to High Point, N.C., for the VertKlasse meet taking place from April 4-5. The journey is just beginning, and the Deacs are committed to showcasing their talent and hard work as the season progresses.
Stay Connected with Wake Forest Athletics
To keep up with the latest performances and stories from the Deacs, be sure to follow them through their official pages:
Final Thoughts
With athletic prowess on display and the pursuit of excellence at the forefront, the Wake Forest track and field team is primed for an exciting 2025 season. Every race, every throw, and every step will echo the dedication showcased by these remarkable athletes. Prepare to be inspired!
