Ishmael Kipkurui Inks Pro Deal With Nike – University of New Mexico Lobos athletics

Following one of the most dominant 10,000m seasons in collegiate history capped off by a national title in June, New Mexico’s Ishmael Kipkurui has signed a professional contract with Nike and will conclude his Lobo career as the NCAA 10K record holder and a three-time First Team All-American. He began his professional career immediately after the news went public, representing Nike in the men’s 10,000m at the 50th Prefontaine Classic on Saturday and surpassing his collegiate and UNM record with a 26:47.72 new personal best to finish fifth and earn a spot on the Kenyan National Team ahead of 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. “We’re thrilled Ishmael has secured a spot on the Kenyan team for the World Championships in Tokyo,” said UNM Head Coach Darren Gauson. “We’d like to express our gratitude for his contributions to Lobo Track and Field and offer our full support as he embarks on this new chapter with Nike. “As one of the world’s top 10,000m talents, we can’t wait to see him shine in the future.” Kipkurui — a true freshman out of Baringo County, Kenya — proved himself to be the class of the 10,000m distance in his first outdoor season
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