By KT Reporter
Uganda’s long-distance star Jacob Kiplimo set a new national marathon record after winning the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, October 12. The reigning World Cross Country Champion clocked a personal best of 2 hours, 2 minutes, and 23 seconds, dominating the race to finish 91 seconds ahead of Kenya’s Amos Kipruto, who came second in 2:03:54. Alex Masai finished third in 2:04:37, while Conner Mantz of the USA came fourth in 2:04:xx, setting a new North American record.
Kiplimo’s time is the fastest ever by a Ugandan marathoner and ranks among the quickest marathon times in history. The win marks his second major marathon title of the year, following his impressive second-place finish at the 2025 London Marathon.
Speaking to Uganda Radio Network after the race, Kiplimo said the competition was tough but credited his preparation and determination for the victory. “The race was hyper. Every athlete was fit. It took God’s grace and persistence for me to win,” said Kiplimo.
He added that his recent performances in London and Chicago have boosted his confidence and strengthened his dream of one day joining the elite group of runners to complete a marathon in under two hours. Kiplimo’s coach, Peter Chelangat, praised his athlete’s outstanding performance, attributing the historic win to discipline and preparation.
“Our goal was to have him deliver a perfect race — and he did just that. Kiplimo is one of those rare Ugandan talents who could one day run a sub-two-hour marathon, like Eliud Kipchoge,” said Chelangat. The Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) President, Dominic Otuchet, described Kiplimo’s performance as a landmark moment for Ugandan athletics.
“Kiplimo has not only lifted the national flag but also inspired the next generation of athletes. This performance confirms Uganda’s rightful place on the world athletics map,” Otuchet said. He urged government and private sector stakeholders to invest more in athletics to help nurture future champions.
In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Hawi Feysa dominated the field, clocking 2:14:56, a new Chicago Marathon course record and one of the fastest times in women’s marathon history. Her compatriot Megertu Alemu finished second in 2:17:18, followed by Magdalena Shauri of Tanzania in 2:18:03, and Loice Chemnung of Kenya in 2:18:23.
Kiplimo’s triumph further elevates Uganda’s prominence in international athletics, alongside stars like Joshua Cheptegei and Peruth Chemutai. The Chicago Marathon is one of the six World Marathon Majors, attracting the world’s top runners. Kiplimo’s record-breaking performance has cemented his place among the sport’s global elite and reaffirmed Uganda’s status as a rising powerhouse in long-distance running.
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