LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, PA — Cheyney University men's cross country concluded its 2026 season Thursday afternoon at the Lincoln University XC Invitational Tune Up, placing fifth overall in the men's 4K race with 118 points. The Wolves recorded a combined time of 1:27:13, with three runners finishing among the top 20 in a competitive field featuring Arcadia, Lincoln, Bowie State, Penn State Brandywine, and Medgar Evers.
Denim Greene led Cheyney's effort, finishing 14th overall with a time of 15:11.8, averaging 6:06.8 per mile. Greene's performance established the pace for the Wolves and provided a strong individual finish in the season finale.
Christopher Taylor followed in 18th place, crossing the finish line in 15:32.0, while Kimani Smith finished just behind in 19th place with a time of 15:34.3. The duo finished within 2.3 seconds of one another, giving Cheyney three runners inside the top 20 and strengthening its overall team performance.
Aaron Chestnut added a 34th-place finish with a time of 18:36.7, while Phillip Collier rounded out Cheyney's scoring lineup in 41st place, completing the 4K course in 22:18.8.
Cheyney's five finishers combined to secure fifth place in the team standings, ahead of Medgar Evers. Arcadia captured the men's team title with 31 points, followed by Lincoln with 65 and Bowie State with 75.
Season Recap: Building a Foundation for the Future
Reflecting on the 2026 campaign, Coach Lanier emphasized the team's development and perseverance while competing on challenging courses throughout the season. Despite the demanding competition, the Wolves produced several notable individual performances, particularly from Taylor and Smith.
Taylor finished among the top 25 overall in four meets, while Smith recorded three top-25 finishes, establishing themselves as consistent contributors throughout the season. Their performances provided Cheyney with a competitive foundation and demonstrated the program's potential for continued growth.
Lanier also highlighted senior Aaron Chestnut, who established a personal-best mark during his final cross country season. Chestnut's achievement reflected his continued development and determination to finish his collegiate cross country career on a positive note.
Looking ahead, Lanier expressed optimism about the program's future, particularly with the possibility of Taylor and Smith returning next season. A primary objective for the upcoming campaign will be establishing a complete team lineup at every meet, allowing Cheyney to compete consistently in team standings while continuing to develop its individual runners.
The season finale also carried personal significance for Lanier. Cyrus D. Jones, a Lincoln University Hall of Famer and Lanier's former college coach, served as the official starter for both the men's and women's races. Lanier expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to witness his former coach continue supporting Lincoln University's cross country and track and field programs through his volunteer service.
The conclusion of the 2026 season represents another step in the development of Cheyney men's cross country. With several top-25 performances, individual milestones, and a renewed focus on team participation, the Wolves have established a foundation for the upcoming year.
Lanier remains confident in the program's direction, emphasizing that the experiences gained throughout the season will contribute to stronger performances and continued progress.
"Next year we will be better. Go Wolves!" — Coach Lanier
