Virginia Union University's Franklin Kipchirchir became the first VUU Cross-Country Runner in school history to qualify for the NCAA National Championship by finishing third at the NCAA Regional Championship on Saturday, November 9, in Lock Haven, Pa.

Kipchirchir, a true freshman from Kapsabet, Kenya, finished the 10-kilometer course with a time of 30:00.7.

"It was truly a blessing to witness Franklin Kipchirchir make history once again as the first Panther cross country runner to qualify for Nationals," said VUU Head Cross-Country Coach Franck Charles.  "Words can hardly express the pride he brings to our university. Not only did he qualify for Nationals, but he also placed 3rd overall out of 100 competitors.  Franklin shattered the 10K record with a time of 30 minutes, surpassing the previous record set by Micah Kipruto last year. In a single season, he now holds three records: the VUU 8K record, the CIAA 8K record, and the 10K record. In addition, Franklin earned All-Region honors today.  We are thrilled to watch him compete at Nationals on November 23rd at the Arcade Creek Cross Country Course in Sacramento, Cal."