Written by Lila Al-Omoush and Aarshia Pandey

As the Rye Country Day School (RCDS) Indoor Track Team continues its impressive season, they showcase remarkable strength across every competition. With one of their largest teams ever competing in 15 different events, the Wildcats are constantly pushing their limits and setting their sights on NYSAIS and state championships. 

A key element of the team’s success lies in their rigorous training. After a full-team warm-up, the athletes divide into sprinters and distance groups, honing their skills at the Armory, Underdome, and the fitness center. While focusing on personal improvement, the team fosters a strong sense of camaraderie. Senior captains Keira Zheng ‘25, Mary Grace Eubanks ‘25, Esaias Gonzalez ‘25, Joaquin Gonzalez ‘25, Rahul Arora ‘25, and Raihan Bhuiya ‘25 have played a crucial role in establishing a competitive yet supportive culture, driving both individual and collective success. With the winter season nearing the end, the Wildcats remain focused on qualifying for major events and setting new personal records. 

One of the team’s biggest strengths has been the 4×200 relay, where both the boys’ and girls’ teams have consistently secured top finishes. Payton Richardson ‘28, Ailey Denson ‘28, and Jocelyn Rice ‘27 have been nothing short of hard-working and dedicated this season. In their season opener at the Ivy League Prep Schools Meet #1, the girls placed first with an impressive 1.52.78. At their 3rd NYCAL meet, they hit their season PR of 1.48.17, earning them first place. When asking Richardson, she described the team as “close-knit,” emphasizing that their “support does not just show in the relay but other events.” Their dedication and teamwork have driven their success, pushing them to achieve new personal bests and dominate the competition.

The girls 4x200m and the 4x400m team, featuring Eubanks, Zheng, Fueno, and Kayla Rosen ‘28, have been a source of inspiration with their performances, as they recently went to the prestigious Millrose Games at the Armory. In the end, the talented Wildcats placed 4th with a time of 4:20.63. These impressive results reflect their evident hard work throughout the season. They are continuing to work hard for NYSAIS and other races this season.

The boys’ team has also delivered strong performances this season, with several athletes setting new RCDS records. The 4×200 relay team, featuring Bhuiya, Micheal Allen ‘27, Gonzalez, and Tyler Perry ‘25, set the fastest time in RCDS history with an outstanding 1.36.78. His times have been consistent all season, dedication to the team. At the Purple Champions HS Invitational on February 1st, Bruce Jin ‘28 ran the 800-meter with a time of 2:13.25. The freshmen 4×800 also hit an impressive PR of 9.01.76 at The Ridgewood meet on January 15. With their strong team chemistry and determination, the Track Team is well-suited for a strong finish at NYSAIS.

Looking ahead, the Wildcats will continue competing at the Armory and other meets against schools like Riverdale and Poly Prep.