Kenyan marathon star Hellen Obiri faced a bittersweet finish at the 2024 New York City Marathon. A mere 14-second gap separated her from first place, costing her the title and a substantial bonus prize from the World Marathon Majors (WMM) series. Heading into the race, Obiri aimed to defend her New York title and secure the WMM’s $50,000 (approximately Ksh6.4 million) prize, awarded to the top-ranked female marathoner of the season.
While Obiri’s second-place finish is commendable, it fell short of her ultimate goal, leaving her with a runner-up prize of $25,000 (Ksh3.2 million). Here’s a closer look at Obiri’s performance, the competitive nature of the WMM, and how every second counted toward this season’s championship.
Aiming for the Title and a Prestigious Bonus
Obiri entered the New York City Marathon with high hopes and an equally high-stakes goal. Positioned second on the WMM leaderboard with 18 points, she trailed Ethiopian runner Sutume Asefa Kebede, who held 41 points. A victory in New York would have earned Obiri the maximum 25 points, bringing her total to 43—just enough to edge out Kebede.
Obiri’s impressive season included a victory at the Boston Marathon and a third-place finish at the Paris Olympics. These performances secured her position among the elite, setting the stage for a final showdown in New York. However, Obiri’s second-place finish awarded her only 16 points, falling short of what she needed to overtake Kebede.
Narrow Loss to Sheila Chepkirui in a Tight Race
In a field of top runners, Obiri faced formidable competition, with fellow Kenyan Sheila Chepkirui ultimately claiming first place. The two athletes were neck-and-neck until the final moments, when Chepkirui managed to pull ahead by a mere 14 seconds. The slim margin not only cost Obiri the race but also the championship prize.
While the WMM series rewards all top-five finishers with prize money, Obiri’s runner-up position on the leaderboard means she will take home half of the intended $50,000, totaling $25,000 (Ksh3.2 million). This close finish reflects the intense competition among elite marathoners, where every second and every point matter.
Understanding the World Marathon Majors Points System
The World Marathon Majors series is known for its rigorous points system, which awards athletes for their placements across six of the world’s premier marathon events: Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York. In Olympic and World Championship years, these races also contribute to the WMM rankings, further raising the stakes.
The system awards 25 points for a first-place finish, 16 for second, nine for third, four for fourth, and one for fifth. Points are cumulative across the season, and only the highest-scoring male and female runners take home the top prize of $50,000. With the competition spanning multiple continents and races, the WMM system rewards consistent excellence across an entire season rather than a single standout performance.
Obiri’s season was remarkable, but with only a second-place finish in New York, she ended the season with 34 points—just short of Kebede’s 41 points, keeping her from the top spot.
Benson Kipruto Claims Men’s Title After Tight Finish
While Obiri narrowly missed out on the top prize, Kenya’s Benson Kipruto clinched the men’s $50,000 WMM award. Kipruto’s path to victory was solidified after Ethiopian Olympic champion Tamirat Tola placed fourth in New York, missing the top-two finish he needed to surpass Kipruto. Tola’s fourth-place performance earned him only four points, raising his total to 29—five points short of Kipruto’s 34.
Kipruto’s consistent performances, including his Tokyo Marathon win, kept him at the top of the leaderboard, making him the men’s WMM champion. Like Obiri, Tola will receive $25,000 as the men’s runner-up, a testament to the competitive edge required to achieve the WMM’s ultimate prize.
Obiri’s Journey: Triumphs and Challenges of the Season
For Obiri, the 2024 season was marked by both success and challenges. Her victory at the Boston Marathon highlighted her skill and resilience, while her third-place finish in the Paris Olympics underscored her reputation as one of the world’s top marathoners. However, the New York City Marathon presented a final challenge, one that underscored the narrow margins by which championships can be won or lost.
Obiri’s rivalry with elite runners such as Chepkirui and Kebede adds to the narrative of the WMM series. These athletes’ dedication to their craft and their commitment to peak performance define the competitive spirit of the series, where split-second differences often determine the season’s outcome.
Obiri’s near miss illustrates the fine line between victory and defeat in the marathon world. A single race can impact an entire season’s trajectory, as was the case with her 14-second shortfall in New York. Though she fell short of her ultimate goal, Obiri’s season remains an inspiring example of perseverance and dedication.
The Importance of Consistency in the WMM Series
The WMM points system rewards athletes who can perform at an elite level across multiple events. Obiri’s consistent performances were crucial in securing her runner-up position, yet it was Kebede’s sustained success that ultimately placed her at the top. This points-based approach emphasizes the importance of consistency over isolated wins.
Obiri’s near miss in New York serves as a reminder that each race in the WMM series is significant. For marathoners, balancing training, travel, and performance across various events presents unique challenges. However, it is this very structure that defines the WMM series, offering a comprehensive test of athletic skill and endurance.
Looking Ahead: Obiri’s Next Steps
With the 2024 WMM season concluded, Hellen Obiri can reflect on a successful year while also learning from the narrow miss. Her runner-up finish in New York and the overall series showcases her position among the world’s best, and her competitive drive suggests that she will continue to push for even greater success in future WMM seasons.
The New York City Marathon’s outcome may motivate Obiri to refine her strategy, aiming to close those crucial gaps in upcoming races. As one of Kenya’s most celebrated athletes, Obiri’s journey in the marathon circuit continues to inspire fans and highlight the high standards within the WMM series.
A Season Defined by Seconds and Determination
Hellen Obiri’s 2024 marathon season will be remembered for its intense competition, close finishes, and unwavering determination. Although she fell just short of the top WMM prize, her accomplishments solidify her reputation as one of the most resilient athletes in the sport. The narrow 14-second difference in New York City is a testament to the unpredictable and thrilling nature of marathon racing, where every moment can influence the outcome.
As Obiri and her fellow runners look ahead to the next WMM season, her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication required to compete at the highest level. For marathon fans, Obiri’s season exemplifies the spirit of the sport, where victory is often defined by a few unforgettable seconds.
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