Kenyan Runners Dominate New York Marathon 2025
The New York Marathon 2025 set a new benchmark with Kenyan runners taking the top spots in both men’s and women’s categories. Hellen Obiri established a new women’s record, while her compatriot Benson Kipruto won the men’s race, narrowly beating Alexander Mutiso.
Hellen Obiri’s Record-Breaking Performance
Obiri, who also won the race in 2023, completed the course in an impressive time of two hours, 19 minutes, and 51 seconds. She distanced herself from Sharon Lokedi (2022 winner) in the final mile, accelerating to surpass Margaret Okayo’s previous circuit record of 2:22:31 set in 2003. Sheila Chepkirui, the defending champion, finished third, with all three improving upon the circuit’s previous mark.
“There was intense competition. I told myself, ‘I will give my best and push to the limit’,” Obiri said, who earned an additional $50,000 for breaking the circuit record.
The Exciting Men’s Race
Benson Kipruto and Alexander Mutiso created a thrilling men’s race, separating from the chasing pack at mile 24. Kipruto seemed to secure victory, extending his lead in the final 200 meters. However, Mutiso, also from Kenya, refused to yield, accelerating in the final 50 meters but falling just short of the win. Kipruto crossed the finish line in 2:08:09.
“It was incredible. The final stretch was very challenging. I pushed myself to the limit to ensure victory,”
Kipruto, the sole male runner to break the two-hour barrier in marathons, finished 17th with a time of 2:14:36. Many speculate this could be his last competitive marathon, as the bicampion olmpico.
Course and Participation
The 42.2-kilometer route took runners through New York City’s five boroughs, starting on Staten Island and concluding in Central Park, Manhattan. This marked the 49th year of the race across all five boroughs; previously, the course ran entirely through Central Park. The first edition featured only 55 participants, while last year set a record of 55,642 runners – the highest participation in marathon history until London surpassed it earlier this year.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who are the key figures in the 2025 New York Marathon? Hellen Obiri and Benson Kipruto, both Kenyan runners, dominated the women’s and men’s races, respectively.
- What records were broken during the 2025 New York Marathon? Hellen Obiri established a new women’s record with her impressive time of 2:19:51, while Benson Kipruto won the men’s race narrowly beating Alexander Mutiso.
- What makes the 2025 New York Marathon significant? The race showcased Kenyan dominance, with both Obiri and Kipruto securing victories. Additionally, the event marked a potential farewell for Eliud Kipchoge, who has yet to run below the two-hour mark in a marathon.
