Each week, the sports staff will pick one Whitman athlete who performed exceptionally during the previous weekend. The distinction will be judged both on the individual’s performance and his or her impact on the team.

Junior Kendi Thomas dominated the Northwest Conference Championships, as did her entire team. Thomas won the road race individually and then led Whitman in a two through five finish in the conference final criterium.

Her fast finishes pushed her past her nearest competitors and reclaimed the conference leaders jersey. Thomas’ name will be called to the starting line as one of the conference leaders when the team travels to nationals on the weekend of May 9-10.

The recent success comes after Thomas finished third in the women’s Pro 1, 2 criterium at last weekend’s Tour of Walla Walla. The Pro 1, 2 category was comprised, as its name implies, of several professional racers competing against college students like Thomas.