Hellen Obiri of Kenya achieved a remarkable feat by setting a new course record for women at the New York City Marathon, held on October 29, 2023. Obiri completed the race in an impressive time of 2 hours, 19 minutes, and 51 seconds. This victory marks her second consecutive win, as she also triumphed in 2022.
Obiri’s performance was characterized by a strong finish, as she pulled away from fellow competitor and 2022 champion Sharon Lokedi during the final mile. The decisive moment came as she surged ahead, ultimately crossing the finish line 16 seconds before Lokedi. With this victory, Obiri surpassed the previous course record of 2:22:31, set by Margaret Okayo in 2003. Defending champion Sheila Chepkirui secured third place.
The men’s race also showcased a thrilling finish. Benson Kipruto, another Kenyan runner, claimed victory in the men’s division with a time of 2:08:40. The race concluded in dramatic fashion as Kipruto edged out compatriot Alexander Mutiso by a mere three-hundredths of a second. This close finish marked one of the tightest races in marathon history, surpassing the 2005 event, which was decided by a full second. Albert Korir finished in third place, contributing to a clean sweep for Kenya in both men’s and women’s races.
The New York City Marathon, renowned for its challenging course and vibrant atmosphere, continues to attract top talent from around the globe. This year’s event not only highlighted the incredible athleticism of its participants but also reinforced Kenya’s dominance in long-distance running. As the marathon concludes, both Obiri and Kipruto leave a lasting legacy with their exceptional performances on one of the world’s most prestigious stages.
