Habtom Samuel Clenches NCAA Cross Country Championship!
Finally, Habtom Samuel has emerged victorious as the NCAA men's cross country champion! After securing second place in the past two events, Samuel dominated the 2025 NCAA men's cross country championship held on Saturday in Columbia, MO. This impressive performance contributed to the overall success of the University of New Mexico (UNM) Lobo men's and women's cross country teams, both achieving top-four finishes.
Samuel's winning time of 28:33.9 surpassed Rocky Hansen of Wake Forest by over four seconds, who clocked in at 28:38.0. Another UNM athlete, Collins Kiprotich, secured eighth place with a time of 28:45.7.
Lobo Men's Team Takes Second Place
The UNM men's cross country team achieved a remarkable second-place finish overall. This marks the Lobos' best team performance in the NCAA men's cross country championships, showcasing their dedication and hard work throughout the season.
UNM Women's Team Secures Fourth Place
The UNM women's team also delivered an outstanding performance in Missouri, claiming fourth place overall. Pamela Kosgei spearheaded the Lobos, finishing 17th overall in the women's 6k run with a time of 19:02.8.
The Lobos stand out as the only school to have both their men's and women's teams finish within the top four, a testament to the university's strong cross country program. Furthermore, five Lobo athletes earned All-American honors: Kosgei for the women, and Samuel, Kiprotich, Evans Kiplagat, and Vincent Chirchir for the men.
Congratulations to Habtom Samuel and the entire UNM cross country program for their incredible achievements!