Doris Lemngole Powers Her Way to NCAA Cross Country Glory
Alabama sophomore Doris Lemngole made history—and a lot of competitors eat her dust—at the NCAA Women’s Cross Country Championship, clinching the title with a blazing performance on Saturday at the Thomas Zimmer Championship Course. Lemngole crossed the finish line in 19:21.0, solidifying her place as the fourth Southeastern Conference (SEC) runner to ever snag this coveted crown.
The victory didn’t just shine a spotlight on Lemngole’s unstoppable determination; it cemented her legacy in Alabama athletics. Coming off a runner-up finish in 2023, Lemngole’s rise to champion this year feels like the perfect sequel, complete with a triumphant ending. She joins an elite group of SEC legends, including Florida’s Parker Valby (2023), Alabama’s Mercy Chelangat (2021), and Missouri’s Karissa Schweizer (2016).
While Lemngole was flying solo at the front of the pack, she wasn’t the only SEC runner making noise. Florida’s Hilda Olemomoi snagged third with a time of 19:28.7, and Arkansas’ Paityn Noe came in seventh at 19:42.3. It was a day of big performances and even bigger strides for the SEC.
A Team Effort, Even for the Solo Star
Despite Lemngole’s solo heroics, her Alabama squad finished 10th overall with 293 points, proving that cross country is as much about teamwork as it is about individual glory. The day belonged to BYU, though, as the Cougars clinched the team championship with 147 points, a display of consistency and depth that left their competitors chasing.
On the men’s side, the SEC flexed its muscle with Arkansas leading the charge. The Razorbacks snagged third place in the men’s 10k, finishing behind BYU (124 points) and Iowa State (137 points). Arkansas standout Yaseen Abdalla led the team with a stellar fourth-place finish, clocking in at 28:41.5.
Lemngole’s Grit: The Makings of a Champion
What makes Lemngole’s win even more impressive is her relentless drive to improve. Coming in second last year clearly fueled her fire, and she didn’t just show up this year—she dominated. Whether it’s the rigorous training regimens, the mental toughness required to endure a grueling 6k course, or the camaraderie of her Alabama teammates, Lemngole has clearly unlocked the formula for success.
Her performance on Saturday wasn’t just a win; it was a masterclass in pacing, strategy, and sheer willpower. Her ability to push ahead in the race’s toughest moments showcased the kind of grit and determination that’s synonymous with top-tier athletes.
Why This Win Matters Beyond the Finish Line
Lemngole’s victory is more than just a personal milestone—it’s a statement for the SEC and collegiate cross country as a whole. Every championship title adds to the SEC’s reputation as a powerhouse in athletics, and Lemngole’s win further cements Alabama’s role in producing world-class talent.
For young athletes eyeing a future in competitive running, Lemngole is an inspiring example of what’s possible with hard work and focus. Her journey from runner-up to champion serves as a reminder that setbacks aren’t permanent—they’re just setups for the next big win.
Looking Ahead
As the cross-country season wraps up, Lemngole’s story is far from over. With two more years of eligibility, the sophomore has plenty of time to add more titles to her already impressive résumé. Meanwhile, her Alabama teammates will undoubtedly rally around her momentum, looking to climb higher in the team rankings next year.
On the men’s side, Arkansas’ third-place finish and Abdalla’s standout performance set the stage for an exciting future. The SEC has shown it’s not just a football conference—it’s a cross-country force to be reckoned with.
Final Thoughts
Lemngole’s NCAA championship win is a reminder of why we love sports: the drama, the comebacks, and the moments that defy expectations. Her success isn’t just about crossing the finish line first; it’s about inspiring others to dream big, train hard, and believe in the impossible. And if this season is any indication, Lemngole and her SEC peers are just getting started.