Once again all HBCU schools were welcomed to the Robert Shumake Historically Black College and University Challenge. This was the third year for the event and it continues to grow.
We especially appreciate the support of Mr. Robert Shumake, Michigan businessman. Also involved are Cedric Walker, NSSF board member, who coordinates the event and former Olympic coach George Williams of St. Augustine’s College for his hospitality.
The event is part of the larger Great American Cross Country Festival which took place in 2011 on October 1. The Norfolk State men have won all three years with the Norfolk State women winning in 2009, and the Hampton women winning in 2010 and 2011.
This was year 3 of the HBCU race. It was met with idea conditions for racing with temperatures in the low-sixties.
The Hampton women made it two in a row, winning with 29 points. They were second in the inaugural race in 2009, with 43 points to Norfolk State's 31.
Amber Brooks (North Carolina Central) had a great race with Nichelle Harris (Hampton), with Brooks edging Harris, 19:05.3 to 19:07.3.
Norfolk State continued their dominance on the men's side, never having lost in three years. They scored a record low 20 points, with Winston-Salem State well-back in second with 98 points. Winston Salem was second in 2010 as well, scoring 81 points.
Norfolk State, their team laden with East Africans, took 2 through 6. Andrew Chebii-Singh of Winston-Salem State won by .1 at 25:22.9 for 8000 meters. Second was Norfolk State's Philemon Kimutai.
