Morris Mitchell
Staff Writer
morris.mitchell@hawks.shorter.edu
The cross country season has started and Alfred Chelanga is leading the pack in most races he is running.
In this seasons’ competition, Chelanga is undefeated, winning the Jacksonville State Invitational, the University of North Georgia cross country meet and the University of Alabama-Huntsville Invitational.
Chelanga is performing better than he did last season as his times have improved in the men’s 8K event. At the UAH invitational meet he ran 24:18:10 which is faster than is average 25 minute times from previous races.
Chelanga wants to be the best runner he can be and with that motivation, he is constantly working to be better. The Hawks cross country team practices at Barron Stadium downtown and Chelanga is constantly on the track leading the other Hawks.
He is always talking to his coaches asking for tips on how to improve his times.
Chelanga stated, “My goal for this season is to run faster than last year and also try to win a cross country championship once more.”
Therefore, Chelanga is on a mission this season and he has a lot of pressure on him, as well. Chelanga is predicted to win every race that he is scheduled to be in this season by the NCAA pre-season predictions. Every time he goes to a meet, he is getting his competitions’ best shot.
The pressure has not stopped Chelanga thus far in the season.
Chelanga stated that it felt good winning the race, though it was not much of a competition at the UNG Invitational.
With the win on Oct. 1, Chelanga moved to 3-0 on the season. Then he will race
at the Gulf South Conference Championship will be on October 22nd in Danville, Alabama.
