The Virginia Union University men’s cross-country team placed fifth out of 13 schools at the HBCU Challenge on Oct. 3 in Cary, North Carolina, led by medal-winning runs from freshmen Rodgers Korir and Darryl Hawkins Jr.

Korir finished fifth overall in the men’s 8K with a time of 25:06.9, while Hawkins placed 12th in 26:29.6. Freshman Keon Koonce came in 22nd at 27:26.9, followed by freshman Jonathan Holton in 40th (30:39.3) and sophomore Chase Burke in 47th (31:50.9). 

The Panthers totaled 126 points, marking the third straight year they have placed fifth at the event. 

“While finishing fifth out of 13 schools isn’t our ultimate goal, it reflects our competitive spirit,” head coach Franck Charles said. “We have challenges ahead, but I have unwavering confidence in this team.” 

VUU will next compete in the VSU Cross Country Challenge on Friday at Virginia State University in Ettrick.