John Korir Defends Title at 2025 Chicago Marathon This Sunday

CHICAGO, Ill. — John Korir, the reigning champion of the Chicago Marathon, is set to defend his title this Sunday, October 12, with a goal to beat his own record time. Over 53,000 runners will join him in what is expected to be a thrilling race on a world-record course.

Korir, 27, made history last year by completing the marathon in 2:02:44, making him the eighth-fastest marathon runner of all time. He’ll face formidable competition, including Jacob Kiplimo, who has recently proven his prowess with a 2:03:37 finish at the London Marathon.

This year, the elite women’s field stars Ethiopian runners Megertu Alemu and Hawi Feysa. Alemu, the reigning Valencia Marathon winner, aims to improve upon her third-place finish at the Chicago Marathon in 2023. “I am fit and prepared to run better this time in Chicago,” Alemu said.

Conner Mantz, an American, seeks to break the long-standing American record of 2:05:38. After finishing eighth in the Olympic games and then following that with strong performances, he believes he can achieve this milestone in Chicago. “On the right day, you can do something pretty special in Chicago,” Mantz stated.

Defending women’s champion Ruth Chepng’etich is unable to compete due to a doping ban. Thus, a new champion will be crowned among seasoned athletes, including Mary Ngugi-Cooper of Kenya, who has yet to win a marathon in the U.S.

The race begins with wheelchair events starting at 7:20 a.m. CDT, followed by the elite runners at 7:30 a.m. CDT. Live coverage will be available across various platforms, including NBC 5 Chicago and the Olympic Channel.

As excitement builds, Korir aims for an ambitious target — completing the marathon in under two hours and one minute, a feat yet to be accomplished outside of Kelvin Kiptum’s record-setting performance in 2024. The Chicago Marathon has captured global attention, and its scenic route through the city promises a memorable experience for all participants.