Alabama runner disqualified after winning national championship
Doris Lemngole was disqualified after finishing first in the NCAA 5000m, giving the title to Marion Jepngetich.
Olivia Bennett 
It appeared to be another crowning achievement for Alabama distance standout Doris Lemngole, who crossed the finish line first in the 5000-meter race at the NCAA Division I outdoor track and field championships in Eugene, Oregon, this Saturday.
However, the celebration was short-lived. In a stunning reversal, Lemngole was removed from the final results, stripping her of what would have been her sixth national championship. Instead, the title was awarded to Marion Jepngetich of New Mexico.
The Disqualification Ruling
While Lemngole finished the race with a time of 15:11.71—ahead of Jepngetich's 15:13.01—officials disqualified the Crimson Tide runner due to a lane violation. As reported by Flo Trak, Alabama officials formally challenged the decision, but the disqualification was ultimately upheld.
According to a statement posted by UA on social media, Lemngole was disqualified for "taking too many steps over the inside line, under rule R: 15.5-3g."
Lemngole Remains Resilient
Despite the difficult outcome, the junior from West Pokot County, Kenya, maintained her composure after the event. "I have nothing to say right now," Lemngole said. "It is what it is. I’m proud of myself, I’m proud of my school and my career. That’s it."
Lemngole’s reputation as an elite athlete remains firmly established. This season, she was named the SEC outdoor track and field women’s runner of the year—the first Alabama athlete to earn the honor since 2021. Her extensive list of collegiate accolades includes national titles in the 2024 and 2025 NCAA cross country 6k, the 2024 and 2025 outdoor 3,000-meter steeplechase, and the 2025 indoor 5,000-meter title.
