Author: Anthony Kruszka
TOLEDO, Ohio — A University of Toledo freshman runner is making waves in collegiate athletics following a record-breaking start to her cross country season.
Purity Chepkirui earned Mid-American Conference (MAC) recognition after her performance at the Nuttycombe Wisconsin Invitational, where she competed against 17 nationally ranked teams. Chepkirui finished fourth overall—the highest finish in Toledo program history at the event—marking her third top-10 finish of the season.
For Chepkirui, the achievement serves as validation for her efforts on the course.
“That shows me I’m well prepared for the NCAA National,” Chepkirui said.
While Chepkirui remains focused on gaining collegiate experience, Toledo head coach Andrea Grove-McDonough noted that the freshman’s transition to high-level competition has been aided by her prior experience on the international stage.
“She’s got a ton of international experience,” Grove-McDonough said. “She’s competed on the world stage a number of times—particularly at the U20 World Championships as well as at the World Cross Country Championships last fall in Florida—so that part, you know, makes everything even easier for her.”
A native of Kenya, Chepkirui came to the University of Toledo to compete athletically and pursue a degree in public health. Despite managing a demanding schedule between coursework and practice, she expressed gratitude for her experience on campus so far.
“When I came to Toledo, I came for study and I’m happy,” Chepkirui said. “This place is very
nice. It’s a cool place.”