MAYAGUEZ, Puerto Rico - Cornell hurdler Reyne Rodrigues represented her country of Canada this weekend at the 2023 U20 Track and Field Pan American Games. Rodrigues competed in the 400-meter hurdles and the 4x400 relay, against elite international competition from the likes of the United States of America, Jamaica, Brazil and many others. Reyne clocked a speedy time of 1:00.81 in the 400-meter hurdles, and aided in a 4x400 group that was milliseconds shy of a third- or second-place finish.
 

The experience for the Ontario-born Big Red rising sophomore, was something she always dreamed of. "From the day I started track at eight years old, I have dreamt about the day I got to wear Canada across my chest... I am just so grateful for all the friends, family, and coaches who have supported and continue to support me as they have all gotten me to this moment". Rodrigues reiterates her gratefulness for those in her corner who have pushed her to reach her goals, both on and off the track course. "When people talk about hidden heros, it is without a doubt that my mom is mine. I would not be where I am without her both as a student and an athlete... she has done so much to make sure she provides unwavering love and support".
 

The dedication and focus it takes to be an Ivy-League student, division-one athlete, and international competitor takes a unique level of focus and preparation, to say the least. Reyne has it figured out, she goes on to mention, "It's all about having your priorities in line with what you want to accomplish. I don't see it so much as sacrificing certain areas of my life, but prioritizing the areas that are going to make me a better student and athlete. That means putting my studies, training, and mental health first".

Since arriving to East Hill last year, Reyne has set a strong foundation for herself. She took the league by storm, running the fastest 400-meter hurdle time in the Ivy-League by a first-year athlete. Her time of 1:00.30 was good for fourth-place at the Heptagonal Championships, as well as fourth overall in the Ivy among all 400-hurdle performances (women). Rodrigues was also part of the Cornell 4x400 relay group that put up an impressive performance at the Tiger Track Classic against SEC competition, earning a 3:48.98 second-place finish.
 
Reyne is excited to get back into the swing of things this upcoming year. "I am very excited to get back training with my Big Red family... I am ready to put in the hard work necessary to make NCAA Championships, go after some school records, and help contribute to my [women's] team here at Cornell to work towards that conference win". Rodrigues is the epitome of excelling as a Cornell student-athlete, and she will not shy away from the high-expectations that she, and her support team has set for her, both on and off the course.