Despite putting up a spirited fight, Jamaica’s traditionally dominant middle-distance teams had to settle for minor placings in the High School Girls Championship of America 4x800m relay final on Saturday’s final day of the 129th Penn Relays at Franklin Field in Philadelphia.

Alphansus Davis High, who entered the meet ranked second, ran true to their billing with a strong performance to claim the runner-up spot. Their quartet of Allecia Johnson, Ameiah Samuel, Tabbrel Williams, and Alikay Reynolds combined to clock 8:46.23 — a commendable time but not enough to reel in the impressive top-ranked IMG Academy out of Florida, who captured the title in 8:40.51.

Alphansus Davis kept the Jamaican hopes alive deep into the race, but IMG’s powerful anchor leg pulled them clear to deny the island another 4x800m crown, the last of which came in 2022 when Edwin Allen finished tops.

Seven-time champions Edwin Allen, known for their history of excellence in the event, also battled gamely but had to settle for third place this time. Monique Stewart, Kevongay Fowler, Harvia Ware, and Sushana Johnson clocked 8:46.57, narrowly missing out on second in a tight finish.

Holmwood Technical, another of Jamaica’s powerhouses and 11-time winners of the event, also fought hard. Their team of Terrica Clarke, Florence Nafamba, Jovi Rose, and Cindy Rose crossed the line fourth in 8:47.76.