Ruth Chepngetich Shatters Women’s World Marathon Record in Historic Chicago Victory

Kenya’s Ruth Chepngetich made history at the 2024 Chicago Marathon, setting a new women’s marathon world record with a breathtaking time of 2:09:56. Chepngetich’s performance on Sunday not only secured her the win in the women’s professional division but also made her the first woman ever to complete a marathon in under 2 hours and 10 minutes. The 30-year-old athlete’s remarkable feat broke the previous world record of 2:11:53, set by Ethiopia’s Tigist Assefa at the 2023 Berlin Marathon.

Crossing the finish line nearly two minutes ahead of the former record, Ruth Chepngetich expressed her overwhelming joy and pride. “I feel so great. I am proud of myself, and I thank God for the victory and the world record. This is my dream that has come true. I fought a lot, thinking a lot about the world record, and I have fulfilled it. I am grateful,” she shared, beaming with pride after achieving what many believed to be impossible.

A New Chapter in Women’s Marathon History

Chepngetich’s achievement in Chicago has cemented her place in the annals of marathon history. By breaking the 2:10 barrier, she has set a new standard in women’s long-distance running, a feat that will inspire future generations of female athletes. Her record-breaking time of 2:09:56 represents not only a triumph of athleticism but also a powerful statement about the capabilities and determination of women in competitive sports.

Before Chepngetich’s incredible run, Tigist Assefa’s time of 2:11:53 had stood as the world record, a benchmark that many thought would remain unchallenged for some time. However, Chepngetich’s relentless pace and strategic running throughout the 42.195-kilometer race in Chicago pushed the limits of what was thought possible, marking a new era in women’s marathon running.

Honoring Kelvin Kiptum: A Race of Remembrance

This year’s Chicago Marathon carried special significance for both Ruth Chepngetich and John Korir, who emerged victorious in the men’s race. The two Kenyan athletes participated in the marathon to honor the memory of their compatriot, Kelvin Kiptum, who tragically passed away in a car accident in February 2024 at just 23 years old. Kiptum had set the men’s world record at the 2023 Chicago Marathon, completing the race in 2 hours, 0 minutes, and 35 seconds.

For Chepngetich, breaking the world record in Chicago, the same race where Kiptum achieved his milestone, was an emotional and symbolic achievement. “This victory is dedicated to Kelvin Kiptum,” she said. “He was a great inspiration, and we wanted to honor his memory by doing our best today.”

John Korir Takes the Men’s Title

In the men’s division, John Korir, also from Kenya, secured victory with a time of 2:02:44. Korir’s triumph further highlighted Kenya’s dominance in the world of long-distance running, with both the men’s and women’s titles going to the East African nation. His win in Chicago was particularly poignant, as he ran with the memory of Kelvin Kiptum in his heart, determined to pay tribute to his late friend and fellow athlete.

Korir’s performance in the race was a display of resilience and determination. Despite tough competition and challenging weather conditions, he maintained a steady pace and finished strong, showcasing the depth of talent in Kenyan long-distance running.

A Marathon to Remember

The 2024 Chicago Marathon will be remembered as a landmark event in the world of athletics. It was a race that not only saw records broken but also celebrated the spirit of competition and the power of remembrance. The participation of Ruth Chepngetich and John Korir, running in honor of Kelvin Kiptum, added a deeply emotional layer to the day’s events, making their victories all the more meaningful.

Chepngetich’s historic run has sparked excitement among fans and analysts alike, as they marvel at the new possibilities it opens for women’s marathon running. By breaking the 2:10 barrier, she has pushed the boundaries of endurance sports and set a new target for future competitors.

The triumphs of Ruth Chepngetich and Korir underscore the enduring strength and talent of Kenyan runners on the global stage. As the marathon world celebrates these achievements, the memory of Kelvin Kiptum remains a source of inspiration, reminding athletes everywhere of the passion and dedication that defines the sport.

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What’s Next for Ruth Chepngetich?

With a world record now under her belt, Ruth Chepngetich’s next steps will be closely watched by the global running community. Her achievement in Chicago is likely to earn her invitations to major marathon events around the world, where fans will be eager to see how she follows up on this historic performance. Additionally, her achievement raises the question of how much further the women’s marathon record can be pushed, and whether Ruth Chepngetich herself can continue to lower the mark.

Chepngetich’s success is also expected to inspire more investment in Kenyan athletics, as the country seeks to continue its legacy as a powerhouse in marathon running. For young athletes, especially women, Chepngetich’s record-breaking run is a beacon of possibility, proving that with dedication and training, new limits can be reached.

A Record-Breaking Day in Chicago

Ruth Chepngetich’s world record at the 2024 Chicago Marathon represents a milestone not just for Kenyan athletics but for the entire world of long-distance running. Her time of 2:09:56 has redefined the possibilities of the women’s marathon, setting a new benchmark that will inspire runners for years to come. Alongside John Korir’s victory in the men’s division, the event was a fitting tribute to the memory of Kelvin Kiptum, blending celebration and remembrance in a race that will be talked about for generations.

As the running community reflects on this extraordinary achievement, one thing is certain: Ruth Chepngetich’s name will forever be etched in the history of the sport, as the woman who redefined what was possible on the marathon course.