Faith Kiplimo is a distance runner for Fayetteville State University, competing in both cross country and track & field. A native of Eldoret, Kenya, Kiplimo comes from one of the world’s most respected distance-running regions and has quickly established herself as one of the top newcomers in the CIAA.
Kiplimo graduated from Yemit Girls High School in 2022, where she earned multiple trophies and developed a strong foundation as a distance runner. She also competed in basketball, showcasing her overall athleticism. She began her collegiate career at the University of Connecticut, gaining high-level Division I experience before transferring to Fayetteville State.
Since joining the Broncos, Kiplimo has made an immediate and historic impact. During the 2025 cross country season, she claimed the CIAA Cross Country Championship title, winning the 5K in 18:12.9. She followed that performance by placing third at the NCAA Division II Atlantic Region Championships, earning qualification to the NCAA Division II Cross Country Championships, where she finished 82nd overall in the 6K. Throughout the season, she posted strong marks across multiple distances, including a season best 17:53.1 in the 5K.
On the track, Kiplimo has continued her success during the indoor season. She captured first place in the 1000 meters at the Tryon Banked Invitational with a time of 2:59.52, placed third in the 800 meters at the Liberty Open (2:16.14), and delivered podium finishes in the mile, including second place at the JDL Early Bird Invitational with a personal best 4:51.07. She also placed third in the mile at the HBCU Showcase.
Prior to arriving at FSU, Kiplimo competed at the Division I level for Connecticut, earning notable finishes including third in the 3000-meter steeplechase at the BIG EAST Outdoor Championships, second in the 5000 meters at the BIG EAST Indoor Championships, and qualifying for the NCAA Division I East First Round event. Her experience competing nationally has strengthened her composure and competitiveness at the Division II level.
Kiplimo is majoring in Nursing and balances the rigor of her academic program with elite-level distance training. She cites her parents, Gladys and Musa Tanui, as the most influential people in her life, crediting their encouragement and support for motivating her to pursue excellence.
Outside of athletics, Kiplimo enjoys studying, running, dancing, and seeking new adventures. She chose Fayetteville State University because it is her dream school, offering the opportunity to grow academically, compete for championships, and continue her development as an athlete.
After graduation, Kiplimo aspires to become a professional athlete, building on her strong collegiate start and continuing to represent her heritage and university at the highest levels.
Key Performances & Career Highlights
- 2025 CIAA Cross Country Champion (5K – 18:12.9)
- NCAA Division II Atlantic Region Championships – 3rd (6K – 21:24.2)
- NCAA Division II Cross Country Championships qualifier
- Tryon Banked Invitational Champion – 1000m (2:59.52)
- Mile PB: 4:51.07
- 800m PB: 2:16.14
