Last fall, Kelvin Bungei celebrated alongside his Iowa Central cross country teammates as national champions.

Behind Bungei's individual title, the Tritons rolled to the overall crown at Lakeside Golf Course in Fort Dodge. 

Now, a year later, the talented Triton runner will defend his championship this Saturday at the NJCAA Div. I Championships in Richmond, Va. 

"I'm excited to get the opportunity to race at nationals once more," Bungei said. "I am well prepared to face the best guys at nationals.

"Since regionals, I have had good training with my teammates and have been staying healthy."

The only runner to finish in front of Bungei at the Region XI Championships was his teammate, freshman Aspel Kiprob. The two lead No. 1 Iowa Central.

"Aspel being there as my teammate and training mate has been great," Bungei said. "We push each other and have run good times together.

"We are excited to bring back a national title once more because the team is strong and solid. We just have to stay healthy and everyone play their part and the title will come home."

-By Dana Becker