Ugandan long-distance runner Jacob Kiplimo and Ethiopian star Hawi Feysa delivered commanding performances to win the men’s and women’s titles respectively at the 2025 Chicago Marathon on Sunday.

Kiplimo, competing in only his second marathon, stormed to victory in 2 hours, 2 minutes, and 23 seconds, finishing 1 minute and 31 seconds ahead of Kenya’s Amos Kipruto, while compatriot Alex Masai claimed third in 2:04:37.

The 24-year-old, who holds the half-marathon world record, broke away from the pack at the 30km mark and maintained a strong lead to the finish line. Despite checking over his shoulder in the final stretch, Kiplimo cruised home unchallenged, collapsing in exhaustion moments after crossing the line.

“To come here and win the race is a big achievement for me,” Kiplimo said. “I’m happy with my time, but I know I can go even faster.”

In the women’s category, Feysa delivered an emotional victory, clocking 2:14:56 to improve her personal best by more than two minutes. Her Ethiopian compatriot Megertu Alemu finished second in 2:17:18, while Magdalena Shauri of Tanzania was third in 2:18:03.

“Winning here is amazing,” Feysa said through a translator. “I worked and trained very hard for this moment.”

The Chicago Marathon’s flat and fast course once again produced impressive times. Although no world records were set this year, American Conner Mantz thrilled home supporters by breaking Khalid Khannouchi’s 23-year-old U.S. record, finishing fourth overall in 2:04:43.

In the wheelchair division, Switzerland’s Marcel Hug dominated the men’s race in 1:23:20, while American Susannah Scaroni won the women’s event in 1:38:14.

The Chicago Marathon remains one of the world’s premier road races, renowned for its fast times and passionate crowds.

Olympics.com