The Mountaineer’s Distance Medley Relay team has quickly established itself as one of the fastest teams in New Jersey.
While most teams are satisfied with winning a sectional title, the Bernards Track and Field team has set its sights on something much bigger: National Dominance. Leading the charge on this goal is the Distance Medley Relay (DMR) team, led by UPenn commit Brody Watt ‘26. The chemistry of this team has proven to be the X-Factor in their pursuit of success.
The DMR, which is a grueling four-legged relay consisting of a 1200m, 400m, 800m, and a 1600m anchor, requires a perfect blend of speed and endurance. This year’s star, Brody Watt ‘26, who has been a force in the distance events, is the engine that drives the relay.
The current lineup, along with Watt, includes Daniel Richardson ‘27, Danny Hoerche ‘28, and Julian Bonk ‘26. The lineup has historically been a major part of the team’s success, as Bernards has arguably been the most successful Group 2 track program over the past five years.
On January 16th at the NJSIAA Relay Championships, the team set a personal record of 13:36.58.
Captain Brody Watt said, “ I could tell things were clicking when I saw all of my teammates locked in for their race.” He said this was the key reason why they shattered their previous record.
While everyone is aware of Brody Watt’s success, the rest of the roster deserves their credit as well, as the DMR is nothing if someone slips up, making it the ultimate team event in the sport of track. Bernards’ success in this event is a strong reflection of the squad’s overall depth.
Replicating the successes of the 2025 team is a very tough task, especially with the departures of all-time runners in Bernards lore: Mikey Dooley, who is now running collegiately at Dickinson, Cyrus Mehrrostiami, and John Richardson. Yet, the new wave of Bernards runners looks to continue the tradition, as Bernards won 3 of a possible 4 sectional championships in boys indoor track over the career of the class of ‘25.
As Coach Szostak said following the 2025 season, “It has been tough getting back to that level. But we have a good group which is rapidly improving.”
The legacy of the Bernard’s distance program is well established, and this year’s squad hasn’t missed a beat. Building on the foundation laid by previous record holders, the 2026 team is making a case for being the fastest in school history
