10/23/2023 7:46:02 PM Lady Tigers Secure Back-to-Back Victory at 2023 Cricket SIAC Women's Cross Country Championship Share Tweet Pin it +1 E-mail Print By Alexandra Brown MACON, GA – The Lady Tigers of Benedict College clinched a triumphant victory, taking home the title during the 2023 Cricket SIAC Women's Cross Country Championship! The competition unfolded on the sprawling terrain of the Georgia Premier Cross Country Course at Middle Georgia State University. The Lady Tigers dominated the 5K meet, showcasing unparalleled tenacity and skill amidst a competitive lineup of 13 SIAC teams. Benedict College made a remarkable showing, placing three runners within the top 10 of a robust lineup featuring 86 athletes. Their triumphant performance culminated in a stellar 41 points, spearheaded by sophomore Purity Kibet, who blazed across the finish line first with an impressive time of 20:20.85. Securing a commendable runner-up position, Central State emerged with a robust tally of 77 points, highlighting their formidable presence in the competition. Among their standout performers was the impressive Jasmine Williams, who not only broke into the top 10 but also completed the challenging course with a noteworthy time of 22:15.20. Albany State wasn't far behind, securing third place with 91 points. The final standings saw Tuskegee (96), Clark Atlanta (138), Spring Hill (182), Allen (205), Miles (217), Fort Valley State (234), Edward Waters (240), Savannah State (256), Kentucky State (262), LeMoyne-Owen (355), and Lane (404). In a celebration of coaching excellence, Benedict's Danny Brooks was bestowed with the distinguished 2023 SIAC Women's Cross Country Coach of the Year award, exemplifying his unparalleled leadership and mentorship abilities. Bringing another title for the Tigers, Purity Kibet captured the spotlight as the 2023 SIAC Women's Cross Country Runner of the Year! The Elite 14 award, now in its second year, spotlights a student-athlete who has excelled in the crucible of SIAC championship competition and attained the highest academic echelons among their peers. This year, the honor was bestowed upon Madison Lee of Miles College, highlighting her exceptional balance of academic and athletic prowess. 2023 SIAC Women's Cross Country All-Conference Honors celebrated the excellence of top performers: Purity Kibet, Benedict, 20:20.85 Megan Thompson, Benedict, 20:52.52 Evelyn Hererra, Spring Hill, 21:07.05 Jane Kiborus, Benedict, 21:39.08 Nathalia Rowe, Albany State, 21:58.37 Aliyah Jackson, Clark Atlanta, 22:08.80 Anaya Martin, Tuskegee, 22:10.44 Jasmine Williams, Central State, 22:15.20 Zenay Rhaney, Albany State, 22:28.76 Akierah Walker, Tuskegee, 22:46.39 The Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference extends its heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated teams, inspirational coaches, fervent fans, and selfless volunteers whose unwavering support elevated this collegiate event to new heights! Click here to view photos from the 2023 Cricket SIAC Women's Cross Country Championship, and stay up-to-date by connecting with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram (@TheSIAC)!