TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Alabama cross country freshman Caren Kiplagat was named the Women’s National Athlete of the Week by the United States Track and Field & Cross Country Coaches Association, announced Monday by the organization.

In her collegiate debut at last weekend’s Southern Showcase, Kiplagat claimed the women’s 5k individual title via a 16:18.76 performance – over 10 seconds ahead of the meet’s second-place finisher. Additionally, the feat marked the third consecutive year that an Alabama runner has won the 5k race at the Southern Showcase.

Alabama Cross Country’s USTFCCCA National Success

• Monday’s announcement marks the fourth time in the last five years that Alabama has been awarded Women’s National Athlete of the Week honors during the cross country season
• Kiplagat joins two-time honoree and program standout Doris Lemngole (2023, 2024), and 2021 honoree and program legend Mercy Chelangat