The accomplishments and outstanding season of Kiprop
Cross-Country athlete, Patrick Kiprop, has had a historical season. On September 18th, 2021, at the UC Riverside Invitational, Kiprop ran a historical time of 23:07.8, which made a new school record in the 8k. Aside from his new record, he took 1st place overall. As a result of this performance, he received national recognition. Kiprop earned D-II Men’s National Athlete of the Week by The U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association, which has never happened in the FPU men’s cross-country program. Kiprop was happy to receive such an award.
“I’m so grateful being recognized as national athlete of the week not only individually but also as a great representation of the school,” Kiprop said.
Kiprop’s outstanding performance did not stop there, as the season has yet to be over. The Sunbirds attended the NCAA D-II Pre-Nationals on October 2nd, 2021. Kiprop took the top spot in the race and along with other great performances from his teammates, the Sunbirds were able to take the 2nd spot overall.
Kiprop has many accomplishments under his belt already including first place finishes, National Athlete of the Week title, and two PacWest Conference Athlete of the Week awards. Head Cross-Country and Track coach Ray Winter commented on Kiprop’s successes so far.
“My primary emotional reaction is just pride. I’m really proud of him because I see what he’s putting in, in terms of all the work it takes to accomplish his success. And it’s not easy,” Winter said.
Next up for Kiprop and the Sunbirds is their PacWest Conference race in Oahu, Hawaii on Oct. 23rd, 2021.
“We are excited as a team to be competing in the coming conference meet. It takes a lot of hard work, dedication and consistency to win which I see in my team. We are ready to represent FPU and win. Team is ready,” Kiprop said
By: Alicia Garcia | Staff Writer
