Princeton Track & Field/XC Welcomes 29 - Class Of 2029
Princeton Track and Field Recruiting
The Princeton men's track and field program welcomes 15 newcomers in its Class of 2029, as the reigning Ivy League Triple Crown winners return to Princeton for the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year.
After an extraordinarily successful 2024-25 season, which saw the Tigers win their second-consecutive Triple Crown and boast multiple All-Americans, the program is excited to announce its talented new class of athletes who will help it chase more titles this year.
Read on to meet the Princeton Men's Track and Field Class of 2029!
Thomas Arender
PRs: 1600 - 4:08, 800 - 1:54, 5k - 15:16
Before Princeton: Sumner County Track Athlete of the Year 2024 and 2025; school record holder in 800, 1600, 3200, and 5k XC.
Why Princeton: “I chose to come to Princeton because of the outstanding academic experience, the close-knit team culture I experienced on my visit, and the opportunity to maximize my athletic potential.”
Jaylen Bennett
PRs: 100m - 10.65, 200m - 21.29, 300m - 33.91, 400m - 47.32, 500m - 1:02.68, 600m - 1:21.05
Before Princeton: Competed at the World Athletics U20 Championships representing St. Kitts & Nevis; three-time All-American at Nike Outdoor Nationals (2025); Carifta Games silver medalist; named New Hampshire State Gatorade Track & Field Player of the Year (2025).
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because I know that it is a once in a lifetime experience that offers the perfect combination of world-class academics and world-class athletics. I know the next four years at Princeton will provide unmatched opportunities for growth and exploration. I’m extremely excited to be a part of a tightly knit team and compete as a Tiger.”
Hayden Boaz
PRs: 5K - 14:13, 3200m - 8:50, Mile - 4:11
Before Princeton: 2nd at NBNI in the 5k; 10th in the 3k at NON outdoors.
Why Princeton: “When I visited Princeton, I felt like I had found my people. Everyone had the same mindset of improving, both academically and athletically, and seemed genuinely interested in the experience.”
Quentin Braithwaite
PRs: 100m - 10.49, 200m - 21.19, 60m - 6.75
Before Princeton: Three-time Maryland 4A state champion; two-time Adidas Outdoor Track National; set an AAU National Record for the 4x100 meter relay when club team, The House, ran 39.92 seconds last summer.
Why Princeton: “I chose to come to Princeton because of its prestige and outstanding job preparation, as well as the amazing track and field team, especially the sprint crew.”
Isaiah Bright
PRs: 110mH - 13.73, 300mH - 37.50, 400m dash - 48.75, 100m dash - 10.64
Before Princeton: USATF All-American; CIF SS Masters champion; CIF state finalist.
Why Princeton: “Princeton’s emphasis on support and family, especially within the track team, immediately made it feel like home. Once I experienced the team’s bond, I knew this was a place where we can make great things happen in a like-minded and driven community. I deeply appreciated Coach Abdullah’s warm welcome to the team and loved seeing athletes’ progression during this past season. I’m beyond excited to both train with and compete alongside high caliber athletes, and more importantly to be a part of the future of Princeton track & field.”
Clayton Gary
PRs: LJ - 24'01.75", TJ - 48'10"
Before Princeton: Two-time New Balance Nationals All-American (long jump); 2025 District of Columbia State Athletic Association (DCSAA) Outdoor Championships Male Field MVP.
Why Princeton: “For me, Princeton has the triple crown: stellar academics and the opportunities to run track and play football. Its strong focus on undergraduate teaching and learning stood out to me. I also appreciate the strong relationship between the football and track coaching staff as well as their attention to detail. Their making me feel wanted and valued confirmed my decision to choose Princeton.”
Joey Goodenow
PRs: Shot Put - 63'4", Discus - 190'1"
Before Princeton: Two-time Kansas State Discus Champion; discus school record holder; two-time Kansas Shot Put State Champion.
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because it provides world-class opportunities to meet and compete with the best, both academically and athletically.”
Hudson Haley
PRs: 5k - 14:35
Before Princeton: Texas UIL 6A State Cross Country runner-up; 2023 NXN 30th place.
Why Princeton: “Princeton encapsulated everything I could possibly ask of a college. I made my decision the second I stepped foot on campus.”
Sebi Hume
PRs: 1600 - 4:06, 3200 - 8:56, 5k - 14:53
Before Princeton: Five-time individual DCSAA champion; 2023 Gatorade DC XC Runner of the Year; Washington Post All-Met Runner of the Year.
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because it had everything I was looking for in a program and more. Top-notch academic resources, a history of success, and a team committed to achieving at the highest level made my decision to come to Princeton a no-brainer. I saw myself fitting right in on the team, and I believed Princeton to be the perfect environment for me to realize my goals.”
Tsedeke Jakovics
PRs: 800 - 1:48.42, 1000 - 2:24.08, 1600 - 4:09.53, Mile - 4:11.53 , 3200 - 9:15.38
Before Princeton: 10-time Maryland State Champion; three-time All American.
Why Princeton: “For me, choosing Princeton is quite simple. It’s close to home, has great weather, and most importantly, it offers top-tier academics and a tight-knit community environment. On both my visits, I felt genuinely welcomed, which is something I can’t say about the other schools I visited. Coach Vigilante, Coach Abdullah, and the guys on the team made it feel like a place I could really see myself for the next four years. Outside of sports, I’m excited for the challenge in the classroom and the chance to learn from people with totally different backgrounds and experiences. I want to soak it all up, forge life long friendships and grow as much as I can.”
Anthony Liakhnovich
PRs: Shot Put - 66’ 3.75”, Discus - 183’ 6”
Before Princeton: 2025 New Balance Indoor Shot Put National Champion; New Jersey All-State Performer in Track and Field and Football.
James McLeay
PRs: 800 - 1:53.4, 1500 - 3:45.12
Before Princeton: 2024 World U20 1500m finalist; 2025 Australian U20 1500m Champion.
Why Princeton: "I chose Princeton for its top-notch academic and athletic opportunities as well as the supportive team culture that embodies everything I value in a university.”
Kobeyeh Riley II
PRs: 300 - 34.85, 400 - 48.56, 500 - 1.04.63
Robert Ruffini
PRs: HJ - 2.15m, LJ - 7.43m, 60m - 6.95s
Before Princeton: European U20 championships bronze medalist in high jump; two-time Slovakia Republic National Indoor Champion; Slovakia Republic National Outdoor Champion.
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because it has always been my dream to study at a top-notch academic institution and continue doing high jump at the same time. Princeton was simply the perfect fit. The opportunity to develop both as a student and as an athlete is unmatched at Princeton and that played a huge role in my decision to become a Tiger.”
Tristan Yoder
PRs: 1600 - 4:06; 3200 - 8:52; 5000 (XC) - 14:56
Before Princeton: VA Gatorade XC Player of the Year (2024); VA 3A State Champ in XC, indoor 3200, outdoor 1600 and 3200; WHSV 3 Student Athlete of the Year.
Why Princeton: “I chose to come to Princeton because of the combined academic and athletic excellence, as I wanted to challenge myself in both ways. The team atmosphere also felt so positive and encouraging, which was another reason why it felt right.”
Princeton Women's Track & Field/XC Welcomes 14 As Class Of 2029
The Princeton University women’s track & field/cross country team welcomes 14 talented newcomers as its Class of 2029.
Kyah Anderson | Distance
Hometown: Mermaid Waters, Australia
High School: King’s Christian
HS PRs: 1500m: 4:33.71 … 3000m: 9:45.09 … 5000m: 16:56.10
Before Princeton: 2024 Australian National Cross Country Championships – 2nd … 2023 U20 … Australian National Track and Field Championships at 5000m – 3rd … 2023 Australian National Track and Field Championships at 3000m – 2nd … Five Time Australian Cross Country National Medalist … Six Time Queensland State Track and Field Champion at 1500m … Six Time Queensland State Track and Field Champion at 3000m
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because it offers a uniquely challenging and rewarding environment where I know I’ll be pushed to grow both academically and athletically every day. That growth will be supported by an incredible coach, a dedicated team, and world-class resources. Throughout the recruiting process, I was continually impressed by how welcoming and supportive Coach Hunt and the team were, and I was immediately inspired by the beauty of the campus and the caliber of the facilities. Although it’s on the other side of the world, I already feel that Princeton will be a home away from home, and I’m incredibly excited for the journey ahead.”
Caroline Barton | Distance
Hometown: Charlotte, N.C.
High School: Carolina Day
HS PRs: 1600m: 4:44.90 … 3000m: 9:26.63 … 5000m: 16:24.15
Before Princeton: 2025 New Balance Indoor National Champion at 5000m … 2024 Footlocker National Championship Qualifier … 2024-2025 North Carolina Cross Country Gatorade Runner of the Year … 19 NCISAA State Championships
Why Princeton: “When I first stepped foot on campus in early August 2023, I immediately knew Princeton was my dream school: the perfect place for me to grow and thrive as an athlete, scholar, and friend. The university, with its incredible academic opportunities and beautiful campus, is truly in a class of its own. Coach Hunt and the team made me feel welcome right away with their focus on fun, positive culture, and excellence. I am beyond thrilled to set and achieve goals with my teammates as we chase championships and further cement ourselves as impactful competitors on the national stage. I am fully confident that Princeton will change my life and I am so excited for what comes next. Go Tigers!!”
Abigail Errington | Distance
Hometown: South Pasadena, Calif.
High School: South Pasadena
HS PRs: 1600m: 4:49.71 … 3200m: 10:05.97
Before Princeton: 2025 CIF Southern Section Champion at 3200m … 2024 CIF State Cross Country Champion … 2024 Nike National Cross Country Championship Qualifier … 2024 CIF Southern Section Champion at 1600m
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because it checked every box. I knew I'd have the resources to thrive both athletically and academically. I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to compete at such a high level while also receiving a world-class education.”
Nelly Floutakou | Middle Distance
Hometown: Athens, Greece
High School: Athens College
HS PRs: 400m: 54.79 … 800m: 2:05.86
Before Princeton: 2025 Greece Indoor National Championship at 800m, Bronze Medal … 2024 Greece U18 National Indoor Record Holder at 400m … 2023 Greece National Champion at 400m … 2023 Greece National Championships at 800m, Silver Medal
Why Princeton: “From the very first conversation I had with Coach Hunt, Princeton found a special place in my heart. I instantly felt it was the place that truly suited me—a place where I could grow both as a student and an athlete. When I visited in September, the warmth and sincerity of the team and coaches made me feel like I belonged. It became clear to me that there's nowhere else quite like Princeton. I couldn’t be more excited to be part of this team and officially become a Princeton Tiger.”
Delia Gregory | Sprints
Hometown: Overland Park, Kan.
High School: Blue Valley North
HS PRs: 100m: 11.62 … 200m: 23.85 … 400m: 53.49
Before Princeton: 2025 Kansas 6A 100m Runner-Up … 2024 Kansas 6A 200m Champion … 2 Time Kansas 6A 400m Champion … Kansas 400m All-Time Record Holder
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because I consistently felt valued by the team and coaching staff throughout the recruiting process. It was clear that they cared about me, not only as an athlete, but as a person as well. Additionally, the opportunities, collaborative team culture, and history of success at Princeton made the decision a no-brainer.”
Lotte Gretzler | Pole Vault, Combined Events
Hometown: Schwabenheim, Germany
High School: Schule Für Hochbegabtenförderung
HS PRs: Pole Vault: 4.11/ 13’6” … Heptathlon: 5598 points … 100m Hurdles: 14.06 … 200m: 25.30 … Long Jump: 5.84/19’0” … Javelin 500g: 47.49/ 156’9”
Before Princeton: 2025 South German champion seniors pole vault … 2024 7th place European Championships heptathlon … 2023 German record (team heptathlon U18) … 2022 German champion heptathlon U16
Why Princeton: “I immediately fell in love with Princeton. From the moment I spoke with the coaches and the team I felt welcomed and embraced by a loving environment. Everyone is passionate about academics and track and field, just like me, and I believe Princeton is the perfect place for me to grow in both areas while also enjoying the journey on this beautiful campus.”
Ava John | Combined Events
Hometown: Twickenham, England
High School: Tiffin School
HS PRs: Heptathlon: 5377 … Pentathlon: 3845 … 100m Hurdles: 14.37 … 200m: 25.47 … 800m: 2:16 … Long Jump: 5.78/ 19’0”
Before Princeton: 2025 British U20 bronze medalist in the Pentathlon … 2024 British U20 bronze medalist in the Pentathlon … 2024 Norwegian U20 Indoor Combined Events Champion … 2024 Swiss National championship Heptathlon Champion
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because of the incredible athletic and academic opportunities it offers. I know it’s a place where I’ll be able to challenge myself and work towards my goals, both in the classroom and on the track. During my official visit, the enthusiasm and kindness from the team really stood out and I got a real sense of how much care and attention to detail goes into supporting each athlete. I couldn’t be more excited to be joining this amazing team!”
Jane Kennedy | Sprints
Hometown: Cleveland Heights, Ohio
High School: Hathaway Brown
HS PRs: 100m: 12.13 … 200m: 24.69 … 400m: 54.94
Before Princeton: 2025 Ohio Indoor State 400m Champion … 2025 Ohio Indoor State 200m Champion … 2024 Ohio Division 2 400m Champion … 2 Time Ohio Division 2 100m Finalist
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because it is a place where I will be pushed out of my comfort zone both athletically and academically in a manner that will help me grow and improve. The team’s welcoming environment stuck out to me, especially everyone’s immediate open kindness and willingness to lend a helping hand. I admire that Princeton offers a diverse community where I can learn from various global perspectives and refine my thinking. The team’s culture, talent, coaching, and hard-working mindset make me excited and grateful to join them in the upcoming year!”
Caroline Mauro | Jumps
Hometown: Portland, Ore.
High School: Catlin Gabel
HS PRs: High Jump: 1.80m/5’10.75” … Long Jump: 5.70m/18’8.5”
Before Princeton: 2024 Nike Outdoor Nationals Silver Medalist … 2024 USATF U20 6th Place Finisher … 4 Time Oregon 3A High Jump Champion … Oregon Long Jump State Record Holder
Why Princeton: “Princeton was always it. Coach Eisenreich was the first coach I spoke with during my recruitment process, and ever since then, each new piece of information I learn has made me fall more in love with the school. Throughout my recruitment process, an aspect that was important to me was whether a school’s athletics program valued academics as much as athletics. In Princeton, my hope rang true. I quickly discovered that the coaches and staff are dedicated to supporting athletes' success academically and on the track, with practices even being planned to accommodate students’ individual class schedules. I was sure that Princeton would be a place where I could compete at the highest level of track while also challenging myself to excel academically. Additionally, when I visited campus in the fall, I was overcome by how welcoming and cohesive the team was, and I couldn't wait to be a part of it.”
Laila Payne | Hurdles, Sprints
Hometown: Houston, Texas
High School: Carnegie Vanguard
HS PRs: 100m: 11.58w … 200m: 23.89w … 100m Hurdles: 13.41w … 300m Hurdles: 41.96 … 400m Hurdles: 59.14
Before Princeton: 2025 Texas 5A 100m Hurdle Bronze medalist … 2024 Texas 5A 300m Hurdle Runner Up … 2024 USATF Junior Olympic 400m Hurdle Bronze medalist … 2023 Texas 5A 300m Hurdle Champion … 2023 USATF Junior Olympic 400m Hurdle Champion
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because of the incredible resources and support from the coaches, faculty, and student body. Princeton truly feels like home to me, so it was a clear choice. I believe the Princeton environment will help me develop not only as an athlete and student, but also as a person, and it will become a place I’ll be excited to remember.”
Julia Santos | Throws
Hometown: Beachwood, N.J.
High School: Toms River
HS PRs: Shot Put: 14.79/48’6.5” … Discus: 41.45/136’0”
Before Princeton: New Jersey Group 3 Indoor shot put champion 2024, 2025 … New Jersey indoor Meet of Champions runner up 2025 … Indoor Eastern States Indoor shot put champion 2023, 2024, 2025 … New Balance Indoor National Championships bronze medalist 2025 … New Jersey Group 3 Outdoor shot put champion 2025 … New Jersey outdoor Meet of Champions Runner up 2025
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because of the opportunities I would be given academically and athletically. The pride taken in the Princeton education is just what I need to thrive in my next four years. I’m extremely excited to be able to have such an amazing team as well as coaches who will help me become the best version of myself.”
Anika Scott | Hurdles, Jumps
Hometown: Bedford, N.H.
High School: Bedford
HS PRs: Long Jump: 6.18m/20’3.25” … 55m Hurdles: 7.76 … 100m Hurdles: 13.94 … 300m Hurdles: 44.81
Before Princeton: 2024 New England 100m Hurdle Champion … 2024 New England Long Jump Champion … 2024 New Balance Outdoor Long Jump, fourth place … 2023-2024 Gatorade New Hampshire Girls Track & Field Player of the Year … New England 55m Hurdle Record Holder
Why Princeton: “I fell in love with Princeton and its Track program for a multitude of reasons. Not only does the campus hold so much beauty, but wonderful people as well. Everyone I've met has been so kind, especially the coaches and the team who've made me feel reassured that I will have support and comradery in this new chapter of my life. When I spent time on the campus and with the team last fall, I really felt that this was a place that I could call home. Princeton's vast academic resources have also made me so excited about the many great potential opportunities, and I truly feel I will be supported wherever my curiosity takes me.”
Liz Williamson | Middle Distance
Hometown: Tampa, Fla.
High School: Academy of the Holy Names
HS PRs: 400m: 57.71 … 800m: 2:09.44 … 1600m: 4:54.4
Before Princeton: 2025 Florida 2A State Runner-Up at 1600m … 2025 Florida 2A State Champion at 800m … 2023 Florida 2A State Champion at 800m … 2022 Florida 2A State Champion at 1600m
Why Princeton: “During my college search, I knew I wanted two things: an academically rigorous school and a competitive athletic program. Princeton excelled in both categories, and as the university and the team became more familiar, Princeton began to feel more and more like home. I soon realized that Princeton University was a place where I would be able to reach new heights as a student and a runner. I'm proud to join such an uplifting and motivated community this fall!”
Elizabeth Yeboah-Kodie | Hurdles, Jumps
Hometown: Woodbridge, Va.
High School: Colgan
HS PRs: 60m Hurdles: 8.57 … 100m Hurdles: 13.61 … 300m Hurdles: 42.44 … Long Jump: 6.12m/20’0”
Before Princeton: 2025 Virginia Class 6 100m Hurdle Champion … 2025 Virginia Class 6 Long Jump Champion … 2025 Virginia Class 6 300m Hurdle Runner-Up
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because there I can gain an exceptional education and compete at a high level of athletics. The campus is gorgeous and filled with passionate Professors and faculty who make it their goal to provide students with interesting opportunities and an inclusive environment. Princeton’s track and field team has produced champions of all events, so I am eager to find the possibilities which await me there. Finally, the athletes I met spoke highly of their coaches and made me feel very comfortable on my visits, allowing me to envision a bright future at Princeton.”