AthleticsAthletics News
Blazer Spotlight: Ray Wells Jr.
Ray Wells Jr. recently joined the Bush community as the new Varsity Track and Field Head Coach. A Seattle native, Ray was the state champion in the 100-meter and 200-meter dash at Rainier Beach High School in 2015 and 2016. He went on to a decorated college track and field career at Washington State University, and still holds the school record for the 60m at 6.53 seconds. This spring, during his professional indoor track season, he ran a 6.48 second 60m dash, the 33rd-fastest all-time in the event.
Ray’s achievements on the track have been shaped by his work ethic and lifelong habits.
“My drive was instilled in me from a young age. My family always made sure that you were striving to become better,” Ray said.
Now, he extends his values to the young athletes at Bush that he’s coaching.
“My goal is to get them to be the best version of themselves possible, through understanding mind and body,” Ray said.
From top tier training techniques to mental preparation, Ray prepares his runners for all facets of the sport.
“We don’t just celebrate the top runners, we celebrate anyone getting better,” he said.
“Coach Ray has brought his infinite knowledge and passion for the sport of track and field to our athletes. He has taught them the importance of staying focused on their training and their path through the season to make an impact on race day! This season has already had several students hitting PR’s and we are looking forward to what is ahead this year for our track team,” Bush Athletic Director Jo Ito said.
Currently, Ray is training for outdoor track season and hopes to qualify for the Olympic Trials in June in Eugene, with a chance to qualify and represent the United States in the men’s 100 meters in Paris. Though he tore his achilles in 2021, he has worked hard to come back and reach this point in his running career.
“Every day we waste not becoming better is a moment we can utilize,” Ray said. “There’s no reason to be stagnant.” Ray’s journey was recently featured on King 5 - you can view the segment here. An additional segment on Ray will air this Friday, April 19 on King 5 as well.
-by Colin Murray, Communications Manager
The Bush School is an independent, coeducational day school located in Seattle, WA enrolling 735 students in grades K–12. The mission of The Bush School is to spark in students of diverse backgrounds and talents a passion for learning, accomplishment, and contribution to their communities
3400 East Harrison Street, Seattle WA 98112 (206) 322-7978
The Bush School does not discriminate in matters of employment, recruitment, admissions, or administration of any of its programs on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, gender, or sexual orientation. In addition, The Bush School does not discriminate in matters of employment on the basis of age or marital status