Jacob Kiplimo and Hawi Feysa Target Historic Chicago Marathon Victories

CHICAGO: Defending champions Jacob Kiplimo of Uganda and Hawi Feysa of Ethiopia are set to lead an elite global field as over 55,000 participants take to the streets for the 48th Chicago Marathon this Sunday. Running along the iconic 26.2-mile flat urban course famed for producing world-record times, the distance powerhouses are aiming for back-to-back victories amidst ideal autumn weather conditions expected across the city.

Kiplimo captured his maiden marathon title in Chicago last year in a commanding 2 hours 2 minutes and 23 seconds during only his second career start at the full marathon distance. The Ugandan phenom elevated his stature further in April at a historic London Marathon, recording a staggering 2:00:28 finish to become the third-fastest marathoner in history during the groundbreaking race where Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe officially shattered the mythical two-hour mark.

Reflecting on his return to the high-profile American race, Kiplimo expressed immense enthusiasm for defending his crown against an exceptionally competitive international lineup. “Coming back to Chicago is my special moment,” Kiplimo said, highlighting that his dominant performance last autumn provided the foundational confidence and momentum required to refine his preparation. Kiplimo also previously claimed the Lisbon Half Marathon title in a then-world record time of 57:20 earlier this year.

With female titleholder Hawi Feysa also looking to replicate her past triumph against top-tier Ethiopian and Kenyan rivals, race directors and athletics analysts anticipate blistering pacework from the lead packs. As favorable weather conditions align with one of the fastest courses in international distance running, sports enthusiasts worldwide are bracing for another historic showcase that could redefine global marathon records.