Unstoppable Ruth Chepngetich Smashes World Record in Chicago Marathon

Ruth Chepngetich of Kenya has done the unthinkable! On a cool Sunday morning, she tore through the streets of Chicago, obliterating the marathon world record by nearly two minutes. Her time? A jaw-dropping 2:09:56—the first woman ever to break the 2:10 barrier!

The 30-year-old running sensation dethroned the previous record set by Ethiopia’s Tigist Assefa (2:11:53) just last month at the Berlin Marathon. Not far behind Chepngetich, Sutume Asefa Kebede of Ethiopia claimed second place with a solid 2:17:32.

**A Run with Heart: A Tribute to Kelvin Kiptum**
Chepngetich’s record-breaking run was not just about speed—it was a race fueled by emotion and purpose. Alongside her, fellow Kenyan John Korir, who clinched the men’s title with a blazing 2:02:44, ran in memory of the late Kelvin Kiptum. Kiptum, who shattered the men’s marathon world record at the 2023 Chicago Marathon, tragically passed away earlier this year in a car accident. At just 24, he was a rising star whose light was dimmed too soon.

**“This Is My Dream!” – Chepngetich’s Emotional Victory**
“I feel so great. I’m very proud of myself,” Chepngetich exclaimed, tears of joy shining in her eyes. “This is my dream. I fought a lot, thinking about the world record.”

She achieved what many thought impossible, and brought the world record back to Kenya, where it belongs. “I dedicate this world record to Kelvin Kiptum,” she said, her voice steady with pride and respect.

**A Moment of Silence, A City United**
Before the race, organizers held a poignant moment of silence for Kiptum, offering runners a memorial sticker to honor his memory. Nearly 50,000 participants took to the streets, their bibs marked with this tribute, as the 26.2-mile race wound through Chicago’s iconic Grant Park.

**Kenya Dominates as Korir Takes Men’s Title**
Meanwhile, John Korir put on a masterclass, finishing the men’s marathon in 2:02:44, ahead of Ethiopia’s Huseydin Mohamed Esa, who came in at 2:04:39. Korir, like Chepngetich, dedicated his run to Kiptum, making this year’s marathon not just a competition but a heartfelt homage to a fallen friend.

**A Race for the Ages**
With her third victory in Chicago (following wins in 2021 and 2022), Ruth Chepngetich has cemented her place in marathon lore. This was no ordinary race—it was a celebration of strength, perseverance, and unity. The world may remember her record-breaking time, but for those who were there, it was the spirit of the run that mattered most.