Kenyan marathoner Ruth Chepng’etich made headlines once again with a breathtaking performance at the 2024 Chicago Marathon. The 30-year-old not only won the women’s race but also shattered the women’s world marathon record, cementing her place in history as one of the greatest long-distance runners. Her phenomenal achievement is not only celebrated for its sporting significance but also comes with a hefty financial reward.
Chepng’etich is set to take home a whopping $150,000 (approximately KES 19.3 million), thanks to the generous prize money offered at the Chicago Marathon. According to NBC Chicago, the marathon’s prize structure awards the winners of both the men’s and women’s races $100,000 (about KES 12.8 million). Additionally, Chepng’etich will earn a $50,000 bonus (around KES 6.4 million) for setting a new course record. This substantial paycheck is a testament to her extraordinary talent and hard work.
How Much Chepng’etich Will Earn
The breakdown of Chepng’etich’s earnings is as follows:
- 1st Place Prize Money: $100,000 (approx. KES 12.8 million)
- Course Record Bonus: $50,000 (approx. KES 6.4 million)
This brings her total earnings to $150,000, which is equivalent to around KES 19.3 million. Chepng’etich’s achievement comes after she ran a race that no other woman has ever completed before, smashing the previous women’s world record by shaving off at least two minutes from Ethiopian Tigist Assefa’s former record.
Chicago Marathon 2024 Prize Structure
The 2024 Chicago Marathon offered lucrative prizes for the top finishers in the open division for both men and women. The prize breakdown is as follows:
- 1st place: $100,000 (approx. KES 12.8 million)
- 2nd place: $75,000 (approx. KES 9.6 million)
- 3rd place: $50,000 (approx. KES 6.4 million)
This means that alongside Chepng’etich, Kenyan marathoner John Korir, who won the men’s marathon, will also pocket KES 12.8 million for his first-place finish. Additionally, Amos Kipruto, who finished third in the men’s race, will earn KES 6.4 million, while Emily Sisson, who placed third in the women’s race, will also take home the same amount.
Ruth Chepng’etich’s Remarkable Feat
Chepng’etich’s victory was more than just a win—it was a groundbreaking moment in the history of women’s marathoning. She ran the race with precision, power, and endurance, leaving her competitors behind to claim the world record. By finishing the race in record time, she broke barriers and inspired athletes worldwide, proving once again why Kenya remains a powerhouse in long-distance running.
Chepng’etich’s win in Chicago is a continuation of her dominance in the marathon world. Having previously won the same race and consistently performing at the highest level, she has become a formidable force in the sport. Her ability to pace herself and maintain energy over the long distance has been a key component of her success.
Kenyan Dominance in Chicago
Kenya’s dominance at the Chicago Marathon was evident once again, with not only Chepng’etich but also John Korir and Amos Kipruto making it to the podium. Korir’s victory in the men’s race marked another historic moment, as he followed in the footsteps of his elder brother Wesley Korir, who won the Chicago Marathon in 2012.
Kenya’s success at international marathons highlights the country’s continued excellence in long-distance running. From Chepng’etich’s world-record-breaking run to Korir’s stellar victory, Kenyan athletes have continued to elevate the country’s status as a global marathon powerhouse.
Conclusion
Ruth Chepng’etich’s extraordinary performance at the 2024 Chicago Marathon will be remembered for years to come. Not only did she break the women’s world marathon record, but she also earned a well-deserved reward of KES 19.3 million. Her achievement adds to Kenya’s impressive marathon legacy, with athletes like John Korir and Amos Kipruto also delivering outstanding performances.
As Chepng’etich prepares for future races, her stunning victory in Chicago will serve as a source of inspiration for many aspiring runners. With her relentless determination, incredible stamina, and unwavering focus, Chepng’etich continues to set new standards in the marathon world, firmly establishing herself as one of the greatest runners of her generation.
