Dunchack racked up a total of 3940 points during Heps 160 points more than the second-place finisher and set a new Dartmouth record in the process. Dunchack finished first or second in four out of her five events, which included the 60-meter hurdles, high jump, long jump, shot put and 800-meter run.
Friends celebrate Dunchack's athleticism and leadership.
"Not only does Janae care so much about the team and do everything that she can to support the team as a competitor and leader, she's also an incredible friend and does so much outside of competition to keep up with her teammates and be a great leader," tri-captain Arianna Vailas '14 said.
Vailas considers Dunchack a close friend, even though Dunchack's full course load and work as an undergraduate advisor makes it hard to reach her outside of practice and meets.
"She does so much that it's practically impossible to get lunch with her," Vailas said. "But when I do get to hang out with Janae, it's always worth it."
Dunchack's reputation comes from her awareness that she is a leader and must always present herself as such. As a captain, people are always watching her so it adds pressure and consideration to her actions, Dunchack said.
"I think leading by example is working pretty well," Dunchack said. "I think the team may notice that I try a little harder and I hope that's leaving an impression on them."
Fellow multi-event performer Lauren Ready '15 sees Dunchack as a role model on and off the field, and even in the Class of 1953 Commons.
"I'll get a cookie at Foco and she'll be like No, I'd never eat that!'" Ready said.
Dunchack also makes a point to look out for her teammates on the sidelines, even though she rarely has down time at meets.
"She never loses sight of what everyone else is doing," head coach Sandy Ford-Centonze said.
Ready said that she remembers a time last year when no one else on the team was able to watch her event, but Dunchack was there cheering her on and giving advice.
"We're literally the loudest team there and Janae definitely contributes to that," Ready said.
Dunchack has been particularly focused on getting to know her team and provide support this year.
"As a captain, it's easier to help someone if you actually know that person," Dunchack said.
Dunchack, Vailas and tri-captain Megan Krumpoch '14 gave every member of the women's team a personalized letter and ribbon the night before Heptagonal competition last weekend.
"Janae's card definitely made me excited and made me want to do my best," Ready said.
Dunchack's involvement in a wide range of track events helps her reach out to her teammates.
"Not only is she able to appreciate all the members of the team for what they do, but they are able to appreciate her in turn," Vailas said. "She is very much a part of the team as much as she is a leader of it."
