Kenya ceded its grip on the Chicago Marathon titles on Sunday, as Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo stormed to a dominant victory in the men’s race, while Kenyan women missed out on the podium entirely.
Kiplimo, making just his second appearance in a marathon, surged ahead after the 35km mark to clock a blistering 2:02:23—securing his maiden World Marathon Majors title after finishing second in his debut at the London Marathon earlier this year.
Kenya’s Amos Kipruto had to settle for second place in 2:03:54, with compatriot Alex Masai finishing third in 2:04:37 to complete the men’s podium.
In the women’s race, Kenya’s best result came from Loice Chemnung, who placed fourth in 2:18:23.
The title went to Ethiopia’s Hawi Feysa, who crossed the line in a stunning 2:14:56. Her compatriot Megertu Alemu claimed second (2:17:18), while Tanzania’s Magdalena Shauri secured third place in 2:18:03.
The results mark a rare shutout for Kenyan athletes in Chicago, a city where they’ve traditionally dominated, signaling a growing challenge from regional rivals on the global marathon stage.
