Wait is over for Kelati, who returns to winning ways

By Erik Boal, DyeStat Editor

Weini Kelati still hasn’t officially competed for University of New Mexico, but the 2015 Foot Locker National cross country champion did secure her first victory in a collegiate race Saturday at the Lobo Invitational.

Kelati, a freshman from Heritage VA who took an entire year off from competition after winning New Balance Nationals Outdoor 2-mile and 5,000-meter titles in June 2016, ran unattached in the 5-kilometer race and prevailed in 16 minutes, 59.8 seconds on the UNM Golf Course.

Read Dave Devine's story about Kelati taking a year off from competition to focus on completing her high school diploma.

Kelati broke the 2010 course record of 17:00.4 set by four-time UTEP All-American Risper Kimaiyo.

Even without Kelati contributing to New Mexico’s team performance, the Lobos still prevailed by a 23-79 margin over New Mexico State. Senior Elizabeth Weiler placed third as New Mexico’s official top finisher in 17:36.2.

New Mexico won’t compete again until Sept. 29 at the Notre Dame Invitational.