Jacob Kiplimo proved that his inexperience wouldn’t be a hindrance after he won the 2025 Chicago Marathon in the men’s division.
Kiplimo finished with an unofficial time of 2:02:23, good for seventh on the all-time list and an Ugandan national record.
As he crossed the finish line, fatigue set in for Kiplimo. After taking a congratulatory hug, he collapsed on the concrete at the finish line.
Sunday’s race was only Kiplimo’s second marathon. He was on pace early to break the world record set by Kelvin Kiptum, who died in 2024.
At 24, Kiplimo has already won two world cross country titles, and a bronze medal in the 10,000-meter run at the Olympics.
The key for Kiplimo to separate was by slowing down. He noticed other runners racing too fast, so he eased up and maintained his pace.
Mantz makes history
American runner Conner Mantz didn’t lack confidence.
He said months ago that he wanted to break the American record in the marathon, and on Sunday, he did. Mantz finished with an unofficial time of 2:04:43, beating out Khalid Khannouchi’s previous record of 2:05:38.
Hug does it again
Marcel Hug’s favorite thing to do in Chicago is to go to the Bean. It’s his favorite because the object reminds him of his helmet, which gave him the moniker of the “silver bullet.”
Hug has made Chicago a second residence, especially after he 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, cementing his spot as the most decorated wheelchair racer in history. He was a full four minutes quicker than second place, David Weir.
Sunday’s victory was Hug’s sixth win at the Chicago Marathon overall, and fourth consecutive win in Chicago. He said he was trying for the course record, but tired near the last 10K.
“Incredible day today,” Hug said. “To beat the record means a lot to me.”
Hug was so far ahead of the competition that there wasn’t anyone beside him to keep his competitive juices going. Racing himself, he said, was a challenge.
“I have my own pace, nobody to worry about,” Hug said. “But it’s defintely tough. It’s really difficult to stay focused. I was trying to race against the clock, push as hard as possible, see what’s [going to be] next, any corner in front and to be prepared for everything.”