Ruth Chepngetich beats world record at 2024 Chicago Marathon

CHICAGO, IL - The 2024 Chicago Marathon delivered an awe-inspiring performance, with Kenya’s Ruth Chepngetich stealing the show by breaking the women's world marathon record. Finishing with an astonishing time of 2:09:56, she became the first woman to run a sub-2:10 marathon, demolishing the previous world record of 2:11:53, set by Tigist Assefa in 2023. Chepngetich's victory also marked her third Chicago Marathon title, further cementing her status as one of the greatest marathon runners in history.

Chepngetich showed incredible determination right from the start, blazing through the first 10 kilometers at a record pace. She reached the halfway mark in just 1:04:16, putting herself well on track for the world record. Despite the grueling pace, Chepngetich remained focused, and by the final stretch, it was clear she would not just break the world record but obliterate it. Her triumph in Chicago was not just another marathon win, but a dream come true—a goal she had been striving for since narrowly missing the world record in 2022.

The men's race was equally exciting, with John Korir of Kenya taking the top spot in 2:02:43. While Korir didn’t break the world record, his performance was still one of the fastest in Chicago Marathon history. Korir’s win was a significant milestone in his career, marking his first World Marathon Major title and adding to Kenya’s day of domination.

The 2024 Chicago Marathon was a testament to the unyielding spirit of the athletes and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the sport. Chepngetich’s world record was not just a personal victory but a symbolic one, as she dedicated the achievement to the late Kelvin Kiptum, a fellow Kenyan runner and former world record-holder. Her triumph brings the world record back to Kenya, a country synonymous with marathon greatness. Beyond the elite performances, the marathon once again solidified Chicago’s reputation as a prime venue for record-breaking runs, with the flat course and supportive crowds contributing to yet another historic day.

As the dust settles on this year's marathon, it’s clear that both Chepngetich and Korir have left an indelible mark on the sport, and the Windy City will remain a cornerstone in the global marathon landscape. The event attracted nearly 50,000 runners, thousands of cheering spectators, and the world’s attention, reaffirming that Chicago is more than just a race—it’s a stage where history is made, records fall, and dreams are realized.