American International freshman Michael Biwott of Kapsowar, Kenya, opened his collegiate debut in style, picking up his first college career win at the New England Championships last Saturday. He completed the 8-kilometer course in 23 minutes, 56.16 seconds. Biwott is this week's MileSplit U National Performer of the Week.
Biwott continued American International's rich tradition in this event at the New England Championships, helping his school capture its fourth consecutive title over the 8K distance. Fellow teammate Glarius Ropp (Eldoret, Kenya) entered the competition as the three-time defending champion. Ropp placed ninth in his final New England Championship meet in 24:26.12.
Biwott won by over 25 seconds ahead of Boston's Rich Peter (24.21.04). Darmouth captured the team title with 83 points, with Boston College (123) and Yale (142) placing second and third, respectively. American International placed 25th overall and were the top DII team in the field with 238 points.