If there is one word to describe Kenneth Rotich’s (Nairobi, Kenya) ETSU cross country career thus far, it would be consistent.
On Saturday, the Kenyan sensation kept the rhythm going, as he cruised his way to victory at Charlotte’s Bojangles Invitational, marking his third collegiate win with the Bucs.
ETSU also received an outstanding effort from Rotich’s cousin, Ben Ronoh (Sotik, Kenya). The transfer from Milligan ended the race in third with a time of 26:12. Senior Michael Deren (Blasdell, N.Y.) placed 14th and r-junior J Penny (Jonesborough, Tenn.) ended the day in 16th, but another highlight for the Bucs came from sophomore Manny Gonzalez (Bryan, Ohio). Gonzalez showcased his best race as a Buccaneer, finishing 18th overall, with a time of 27:19.
“Both Ben and Manny ran very well for us today,” commented associate head cross country coach Michelle Byrne. “This was the best I have seen Manny race since being apart of our team, and hopefully he can continue to get stronger as the season progresses.”
As a team, the Buccaneers were nipped by the host 49ers for the title. Charlotte finished with 45 points, while ETSU ended with 52.
“We are disappointed that we did not get the top spot on the team side; however, I did see a lot of positives today, especially towards the back,” added Byrne.
On the women’s side, ETSU finished a respectable sixth overall. The 49ers made it a clean sweep as Charlotte took home both the team and individual crown.
The ETSU cross country team returns to action on Saturday, Sept. 27, when the Buccaneers head down to Macon, Ga. to compete in the Mercer Invitational.
For more information on Buccaneer cross country, visit www.ETSUBucs.com.

Author