In a remarkable display of athletic excellence, Kenya’s Sheila Chepkirui clinched the gold medal at the 2024 New York City Marathon, leading a stunning Kenyan sweep on the podium.
Sheila Chepkirui, 33, crossed the finish line in an impressive 2:24:35, edging out the defending champion Hellen Obiri, who finished just 14 seconds behind at 2:24:49.
Vivian Cheruiyot completed the podium with a time of 2:25:21, solidifying an all-Kenyan top three in one of the most prestigious marathons worldwide.
The triumphant moment did not go unnoticed by Kenyan leaders, with President William Ruto and Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen taking to social media to express their pride and joy in Kenya’s dominant performance.
Their messages celebrated not only Sheila Chepkirui’s victory but also the efforts of Obiri, Cheruiyot, and the Kenyan men’s podium finishers, Evans Chebet and Albert Korir, who took second and third place, respectively.
President Ruto’s Praise: A Proud Moment for Kenya
President William Ruto was among the first to congratulate Sheila Chepkirui and the rest of the Kenyan athletes. Posting on his X account (formerly Twitter), he described the achievement as “incredible,” commending the podium sweep as a testament to the prowess of Kenyan athletes on the global stage.
“Hats off to our phenomenal women’s team for an incredible podium sweep at the 2024 New York City Marathon!” President Ruto wrote. “Congratulations Sheila Chepkirui for winning gold, Hellen Obiri for taking silver, and Vivian Cheruiyot for claiming bronze.”
The president’s message was not only a congratulatory note but also a symbol of national pride. Kenyan athletes have long been dominant in international distance running, and this victory reaffirms Kenya’s reputation as a powerhouse in marathon racing.
Ruto’s public endorsement highlights the importance of athletics in Kenya’s national identity and reflects the pride Kenyans feel when their athletes excel on the world stage.
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Sports CS Kipchumba Murkomen Joins in the Celebration
Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen also celebrated the accomplishments of the Kenyan athletes, offering words of praise and encouragement. In his message, Murkomen specifically lauded the women’s trio for “dropping everyone behind and making the race their own.”
Murkomen’s message went beyond Chepkirui’s victory. He congratulated Hellen Obiri and Vivian Cheruiyot for their strong performances and extended his praise to the Kenyan men who also made it to the podium. “Congratulations, Sheila Chepkirui, on winning the race on your debut. That finish was spectacular. Hellen Obiri and Vivian Cheruiyot, well done for coming 2nd and 3rd, respectively. Good job, Evans Chebet and Albert Korir, for finishing 2nd and 3rd respectively in the men’s marathon,” he stated.
What an extraordinary performance from our ladies in the New York City Marathon today! They dropped everyone behind and made the race their own.
Congratulations, Sheila Chepkirui, on winning the race on your debut. That finish was spectacular. Hellen Obiri and Vivian Cheruiyot,… pic.twitter.com/OSgoxSa4Xd
— KIPCHUMBA MURKOMEN, E.G.H (@kipmurkomen) November 3, 2024
Murkomen’s message underscores the strength of Kenya’s marathon talent. In a race with the world’s top athletes, Kenyan runners dominated the field, both in the men’s and women’s races. His remarks reflect the pride and respect Kenyan officials have for their athletes’ hard work and resilience, inspiring a new generation of runners back home.
Sheila Chepkirui’s Path to Victory
Sheila Chepkirui’s win at the New York City Marathon is a significant milestone in her running career. Despite a strong start in marathon racing at the 2022 Valencia Marathon, she had yet to secure a major title—until now. In New York, Chepkirui delivered an outstanding performance, setting a strong pace early on and outlasting her competitors in the final miles.
Sheila Chepkirui’s win was a statement, not just of her own skill but of the depth of Kenyan talent. Chepkirui’s time of 2:24:35 was enough to hold off a fierce challenge from Hellen Obiri, who won the New York Marathon in 2022 and was determined to defend her title.
This victory also highlights Chepkirui’s growth as an athlete and her ability to rise to the occasion under intense pressure.
“Hats off to our phenomenal women’s team for an incredible podium sweep at the 2024 New York City Marathon! Congratulations Sheila Chepkirui for winning gold, Hellen Obiri for taking silver, and Vivian Cheruiyot for claiming bronze.”
-President William Ruto#KBCniYetu^EM pic.twitter.com/3cWZnXEtku— KBC Channel1 News (@KBCChannel1) November 3, 2024
Kenyan Women’s Podium Sweep: Dominance in Marathon Running
The all-Kenyan podium in the women’s marathon was a moment of national pride. The trio of Chepkirui, Obiri, and Cheruiyot showcased the strength and resilience of Kenyan women in long-distance running.
For Hellen Obiri, finishing second was an impressive follow-up to her 2022 victory, while veteran runner Vivian Cheruiyot rounded out the podium in style.
Kenya’s dominance in the women’s race was mirrored by the men’s results, with Evans Chebet and Albert Korir finishing second and third, respectively.
Their strong performances against a tough field of international runners demonstrated Kenya’s depth of talent and the rigorous training and discipline that Kenyan athletes are known for.
A Boost for Kenyan Athletics
The victory in New York represents more than personal achievements for the athletes; it’s a boost for Kenyan athletics as a whole. Such victories draw international attention, increase visibility for Kenyan runners, and inspire young athletes back home to pursue their dreams in sports. The encouragement from President Ruto and Sports CS Murkomen serves as a reminder that the athletes have the full support of their country, which is vital for their morale and future performances.
Victories in international marathons also help foster development in sports infrastructure back in Kenya. With government support, young athletes have access to training facilities, coaching, and competitive opportunities. Chepkirui, Obiri, Cheruiyot, Chebet, and Korir have become symbols of Kenyan excellence, showing the world that Kenya’s talent pipeline continues to produce world-class athletes.
