The Buccaneers were hoping to break out the South Regional and head to Nationals, but ETSU could not overcome the best of the best in their region as they finished seventh overall at the Lambert Acres Golf Course.
All-Atlantic Sun sophomore runner Ben Ronoh (Sotik, Kenya) led the pack of Buccaneer runners across the finish line, completing the rigorous 10K course in 21st with a time of 32:15.12.
Ronoh led the Bucs across the line for the second time this season. Right along Ronoh’s heals was senior Michael Deren (Blasdell, N.Y.).
Deren capped off a solid cross country career at ETSU by placing 22nd overall with a mark of 32:15.51.
With Ronoh and Deren placing in the top-25, the duo both received all-region honors at the post-meet ceremony.
“I am pleased with how Deren and Ronoh ran today,” said head cross country coach David E. Walker. Rounding out the Buccaneer attack was junior J Penny (Jonesborough, Tenn.) and senior Jeff Crane (Taylors, S.C.). Penny finished in 48th, while Crane ended in 53rd.
ETSU should not be disappointed as they enjoyed an outstanding year. The Buccaneers claimed two team titles, including the Atlantic Sun Conference Championship – marking the first men’s conference crown in 12 years. In addition, the Bucs had five all-conference runners, including 2008 Atlantic Sun Runner of the Year, and Walker won his 14th Coach of the Year award.
“I am very pleased with the overall season we had,” Walker said. Individually, Auburn’s Felix, Kibioywo was the first person to cross the tape by turning in a time of 30:45.91. Kibioywo and his Tiger teammates secured a spot to Nationals as they finished second overall.
Alabama claimed the team crown as the Crimson Tide edged out Auburn by 10 points – 59-49.
The cross country runners will now gear up for the indoor track and field season, which begins Friday, Dec. 5 at Appalachian State.

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