California Baptist University
NCAA Division II Championships
All-American Frenchman
5/27/2016 7:27:00 PM | Men's Track, Cross Country & Track
BRADENTON, Fla. — In less than 24 hours, California Baptist University's Valentin Robert not only qualified for the 3,000-meter steeplechase championship, he grabbed a top-five finish.
The junior Frenchman took fifth overall with a time of eight minutes, 58.94 seconds. It put him on the podium and gave Robert his second All-American status, this time first team recognition. Last year, Robert took 10th to earn second-team All-American.
"I woke up wanting to be top eight so I was happy with the result," said Robert. "It's never easy to do two races in 24 hours. Hopefully next year I will get even better."
Robert hung towards the back of the pack for the first few laps around the track, patiently waiting to make his move. It came heading into the final turn before the bell sounded, indicating one lap to go.
The full kick came as he made the leap over the last water pit jump, passing Chase Broughton of Southern Indiana for the final time. Robert left the runner in his trail as he crossed the finish line a full second before him for fifth.
RESULTS
Players Mentioned
