When students look back at Olympic Week each year, most of the attention usually goes to the big, crowd-favorite events like handball, basketball, volleyball, and the karaoke assembly. Those activities often steal the spotlight, leaving some of the smaller tradition overlooked. However, tucked between the louder competition is one event that many students quietly consider a hidden gem of the week.
The trike race on the plaza has become an underground highlight during Olympic Week for many students. While it may not always have the biggest audience, it brings a level of excitement, laughter, and friendly rivalry that makes it memorable for those who watch and compete. This year, the trike race was even more extravagant than usual. The course was extended to make the race more challenging, and for the first time an additional Freshman Collegio was able to participate, giving more students the opportunity to represent their class.
With the increased intensity of the new course and the pressure of defending a title, reigning champion Rowan Lawlor ’27 came into the race ready to compete. “No matter what, I am ready to participate for my collegio,” Lawlor said before the race began. Despite the fun and playful nature of racing tricycles across the plaza, the competition is still taken seriously by the participants who want to earn points for their class.
Students watching the race also emphasized how the event captures the true spirit of Olympic Week. Ella Henderson ’27 said, “It might look silly at first, but everyone racing really cares about representing their class. That’s what makes it so fun to watch.”
At the end of the day, the whole point of Olympic Week is participating for your class. Whether students are competing in major events or smaller traditions everyone is working toward the same goal.
This year, by the end, the competition was tight between everyone, but Rahner claimed first place, followed by Juana in second and Gonzaga in third. These final results capped off another great year of trike race and Olympic week.
