Ruth Chepngetich Breaks Women’s Marathon World Record in Chicago

In a historic performance, Kenya’s Ruth Chepngetich shattered the women’s marathon world record at the Chicago Marathon on Sunday, finishing the race in an astonishing time of 2:09:56. This remarkable achievement makes her the first woman ever to break the 2:10 barrier in marathon history.

Chepngetich’s record-breaking run eclipsed the previous world record of 2:11:53, set by Ethiopia’s Tigist Assefa in September 2023. This victory also marked Chepngetich’s third win at the Chicago Marathon, solidifying her status as one of the event’s most successful competitors. While her time is still pending ratification by World Athletics, the significance of her accomplishment is undeniable.

“I feel so great. I’m very proud of myself. This is my dream,” Chepngetich exclaimed after crossing the finish line, her joy palpable. “I fought a lot, thinking about the world record. The world record has come back to Kenya, and I dedicate this world record to Kelvin Kiptum,” she added, paying tribute to her fellow Kenyan, who set the men’s world record in Chicago last year before tragically passing away in a road accident at the age of 24 in February.

After her groundbreaking finish, Chepngetich celebrated by posing for photos, waving the Kenyan flag, and running back down the finishing straight to relish the crowd’s cheers. She had previously come close to breaking the world record in 2022, falling short by just 14 seconds. This time, however, she dispelled any memories of that near miss with a performance so impressive that only nine male runners in the event outpaced her finish time.

By the 10-kilometer mark, Chepngetich had already established a commanding lead, with only Ethiopia’s Sutume Asefa Kebede able to keep her within sight. Ultimately, Kebede finished in second place, clocking in at 2:17:32—nearly eight minutes behind Chepngetich. Kenya’s Irine Cheptai completed the podium, finishing in third with a time of 2:17:52, another 20 seconds later.

In the men’s race, Kenya’s John Koriri claimed victory with an impressive time of 2:02:43, marking the second-fastest marathon time ever recorded in Chicago. Koriri’s performance placed him behind only Kiptum’s world record of 2:00:35, set last year.

Ethiopia’s Huseydin Mohamed Esa finished in second place, more than two minutes behind Koriri, while Kenya’s Amos Kipruto secured third with a time of 2:04:50.

In the wheelchair races, Switzerland’s Marcel Hug successfully defended his title, finishing in 1:25:54 after a thrilling sprint to the finish. Hug’s win was closely contested, showcasing his strength and determination. Meanwhile, his compatriot Catherine Debrunner made headlines by setting a new course record for the women’s wheelchair race, completing her run in 1:36:21 and dominating her competitors.

Chepngetich’s monumental achievement in Chicago is more than just a new world record; it symbolizes resilience and excellence in the world of athletics. Her performance not only highlights her dedication and talent but also serves as an inspiring moment for aspiring athletes around the globe. With her historic run, Chepngetich has firmly placed herself in the annals of marathon history, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.