Academy of Art University Athletics

Senior Valentin Pepiot earned the prestigious title of NCAA All-American, the first in ART U men's cross country history, this past weekend at the NCAA Division II National Championship in Joplin, Mo. In the early going of the 10k race, Pepiot remained between spots 20 and 25 then, as the front pack began to break away midway through, he moved up to 13th. On just his fourth career 10k, Pepiot would finish with a time of 29:54.1 in seventh overall.

"It was an amazing race," said Pepiot. "It felt amazing to be in the front pack with an intense pace considering the many turns the course offers. I ran my best race of the year, beating the two guys who finished in front of me in Regionals. To be top 10 in Nationals is crazy and I'm very happy to did it! Being All-American feels amazing! I waited for this award for a long time and now it's done."