Jacob Kiplimo Makes History in Chicago Marathon 2025 as Kenyan Athletes Earn Millions
Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo made history on Sunday, October 12, by becoming the first Ugandan to ever win the Chicago Marathon, breaking Kenya’s long-standing dominance in the prestigious race.
Kiplimo put on a masterclass performance, breaking away from his main challenger, John Korir, just before the 30-kilometre mark. Korir, the defending champion, dropped out shortly after, leaving Kiplimo to storm to victory with a time of 2:04:11.
Kenyan stars Amos Kipruto and Alex Masai fought hard to finish second and third respectively, ensuring Kenya maintained a strong presence on the podium.
🏁 Men’s Race Results and Prize Money
| Position | Athlete | Country | Time | Prize (USD) | Approx. (KSh) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jacob Kiplimo | Uganda | 2:04:11 | $100,000 | KSh 12.8 million |
| 2 | Amos Kipruto | Kenya | 2:04:45 | $75,000 | KSh 9.6 million |
| 3 | Alex Masai | Kenya | 2:05:03 | $50,000 | KSh 6.4 million |
This win marked Kiplimo’s second major marathon appearance after finishing second in London earlier this year. His consistent performances underline his growing dominance in the world of long-distance running.
👟 Women’s Race — Ethiopia’s Double Delight
The women’s category saw Ethiopia’s Hawi Feysa claim victory ahead of her compatriot Megertu Alemu, with Magdalena Shauri of Tanzania finishing third. Kenya’s Loice Chemnung put in a strong performance to finish fourth.
| Position | Athlete | Country | Time | Prize (USD) | Approx. (KSh) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hawi Feysa | Ethiopia | 2:17:29 | $100,000 | KSh 12.8 million |
| 2 | Megertu Alemu | Ethiopia | 2:18:45 | $75,000 | KSh 9.6 million |
| 3 | Magdalena Shauri | Tanzania | 2:19:30 | $50,000 | KSh 6.4 million |
| 4 | Loice Chemnung | Kenya | 2:20:05 | $30,000 | KSh 3.8 million |
💰 Kenyan Runners Still Take Home Millions
Although Kenya didn’t secure the top spot, the country’s athletes still pocketed over KSh 28 million combined. The result reinforces Kenya’s dominance and depth in marathon running, continuing the legacy of greats like Eliud Kipchoge, Brigid Kosgei, and Ruth Chepngetich.
Kenyan athletes remain among the most consistent and feared competitors in international marathons, proving once again that even without victory, they never leave empty-handed.
🏃 About the Chicago Marathon
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is one of the World Marathon Majors, alongside races in London, Berlin, Boston, Tokyo, and New York.
The 2025 edition attracted over 45,000 runners from 100+ countries, with a total prize purse exceeding $500,000.
Known for its flat and fast course, the Chicago Marathon often produces personal bests and world-class times, making it one of the most anticipated events in global athletics.
📲 Follow Kelvin Kibet Media Sports for exclusive coverage, live race updates, and inspiring stories from Kenya’s athletics scene and beyond.
