Uganda’s long-distance sensation Jacob Kiplimo claimed victory at the 2025 Chicago Marathon on Sunday, October 12, finishing with a time of 2:02:23, a mark that places him seventh on the marathon all-time list.
The 24-year-old, dominated the race from start to finish. Kiplimo stayed close to the lead pack throughout and made his decisive move just after the halfway point, overtaking last year’s winner John Korir.
By the 22nd mile, Kiplimo was in contention for the world record, but slowed slightly in the final stages, finishing outside record range.
His time of 2:02:23 not only sets a new Ugandan national record, breaking his previous 2:03:27 mark set during the London Marathon in April 2025, but also cements his status as one of the world’s top marathoners.
“I’m so happy to take the win in Chicago and this is a big achievement for me today,” Kiplimo said.
“I knew that the guys were pushing a little too fast so it was tough to maintain that pace. I just wanted to run my personal best today and maybe run around 2:02. This is only my second marathon and I know I will improve on this one.”
The race saw Kenya’s Amos Kipruto and Alex Masai finish second and third, clocking 2:03:54 and 2:04:37, respectively, with Kiplimo finishing just over a minute ahead of Kipruto.
Kiplimo ran the first half in a blistering 60:16, faster than the 60:30 target, as part of a leading pack of four, before gradually extending his lead to secure a commanding victory.
