Senior Joseph Chebet capped off his already notable season Saturday in one of the most prestigious ways possible.

His 29:58 finish on the 10K course at Tom Sawyer Park in Louisville was good enough for 35th place and All-America honors. Chebet outran 210 other championship contenders to attain these honors.

“Any time you become All-American it’s a big deal,” coach Erik Jenkins said.

After regionals, Chebet joined Shadrack Kipchirchir as the only Topper runners in three seasons to qualify for nationals. 

After Saturday, Chebet joined Kipchirchir as the only Toppers since 1992 to earn All-America honors. Kipchirchir placed 27th at Nationals in 2010.

“To finish top 40 in this meet means you’re one of the top runners in the world, period,” Jenkins said.

This season Chebet won the Commodore Classic, Pre-Nationals, and the Sun Belt Championships, and never finished outside of the top 10 in any meet.

Jenkins said Chebet ranks among the most talented athletes he’s ever coached.

“By far (Chebet) had the greatest run at the Championships in my tenure,” Jenkins said.”Shadrack (Kipchirchir) had a very good run but Joseph ran faster.

“For him to win conference, get named all-region and finish 35th in the United States, it is absolutely outstanding.”