Record-Breaking Triumph

Tessa Hughes ’26 is enjoying an exceptional indoor track and field season, achieving the remarkable feat of breaking three school records.

Head Coach Tim Brennan called Hughes “the most humble of champions,” emphasizing her modesty, hard work and dedication. “She is a pleasure to coach,” he said.

The first feat came when Hughes conquered the Peddie 45-meter hurdles at 7.18, breaking the previous record set by Melanie Nicholas ’04 in 2004 at 7.44.

Next, at the Bishop Loughlin Games in Staten Island, Hughes broke the 55-meter hurdle school record with a time of 8.53, surpassing the previous record set by Gabby Moise ’10. This time also earned her a spot at the upcoming Eastern States Indoor Championships in New York City.

Hughes continued her record-breaking spree by clocking 42.77 in the 300-meter run, setting a new Peddie record, previously held by Ruby Avila ’17 at 43.27. She also qualified for Eastern States in the high jump.

Reflecting on breaking three school records in a single season, Hughes said, “I think it’s really exciting. It’s definitely a big step from last year, and it’s something that I’ve been looking forward to trying to do as a goal for the season.”

Brennan, impressed by Hughes’ ability to perform consistently well under pressure, remarked, “It is rare that such talent prevails at a young age.”

Hughes has set her sights on achieving a record in the 400-meter run before the end of the season. She shared, “I’ve grown a lot in general, getting stronger and having a stronger mindset of what I want to do with running and everything in general.”