In a stunning display of athleticism and endurance, Kenya’s Kelvin Kiptum and Dutch sensation Sifan Hassan achieved remarkable feats at the 2023 Chicago Marathon. Kiptum’s awe-inspiring performance left the running world in disbelief as he obliterated the men’s world record, clocking an astonishing time of two hours and 35 seconds, surpassing the previous record set by Eliud Kipchoge in the 2022 Berlin Marathon.
Kiptum’s journey to marathon glory has been nothing short of extraordinary. He had previously triumphed in his first two marathon appearances, first in Valencia and then in the London Marathon. However, his record-breaking run in Chicago surpassed all expectations and marked the third time a men’s world record was established on the city’s streets, the first since Morocco’s Khalid Khannouchi achieved the feat in 1999. Kiptum’s victory sent shockwaves through the running community, sparking excitement and anticipation for future races.
Chicago’s reputation for its flat and fast course has long attracted elite marathoners seeking to achieve personal bests. Kiptum’s decision to compete in Chicago paid off handsomely, undoubtedly inspiring others to follow suit.
While Kiptum’s record-breaking run captured headlines, Dutch sensation Sifan Hassan made her mark in the women’s category. The 30-year-old Ethiopian-born runner clinched the Chicago Marathon women’s title in an unofficial time of two hours, 13 minutes, and 44 seconds, not only securing victory but also establishing a new course record.
Sifan Hassan’s triumph in Chicago is just the latest chapter in her illustrious career. Having already won her marathon debut in London earlier in the year, she added another feather to her cap by dominating in Chicago. Hassan, the Tokyo Olympic champion at 5,000m and 10,000m, has recently secured medals at 1,500m and 5,000m in the World Athletics Championships, showcasing her exceptional versatility and endurance that make her one of the most formidable athletes in the world.