Sharon Lokedi, Hellen Obiri among Kenyan stars set for New York Marathon

The TCS New York City Marathon, a prestigious World Athletics Platinum Label road race, is gearing up for an impressive women’s field, led by the 2022 New York Marathon winner, Sharon Lokedi.

Lokedi, who clinched victory during her marathon debut in New York last year, returns to defend her title, setting the stage for an exciting and fiercely competitive race.

Sharon Lokedi alongside top Kenyans

Lokedi will be joined by a star-studded lineup, featuring some of the world’s top long-distance runners, including Peres Jepchirchir, Brigid Kosgei, Hellen Obiri, and Letesenbet Gidey, all prepared to compete in the marathon.

Kosgei, a former world record-holder and Olympic champion, is making her New York debut. Her remarkable run in Chicago in 2019, where she clocked 2:14:04, held the world record until recently. Her return to marathon action, following her last race in London, adds excitement to the event.

Jepchirchir, a Boston Marathon winner in 2022, has experienced a successful marathon career. Though she faced a recent calf issue during training, she remains a potent contender and will decide her participation on the race day.

Sharon Lokedi vs Obiri

Obiri, the two-time world 5000m champion, aims to leverage her marathon experience after finishing sixth in her debut in New York last year. She secured victory in Boston and aspires to clinch a title in New York.

Gidey, who posted the fastest women’s marathon debut in history with 2:16:49 in Valencia in December, is determined to secure a victory. Her debut was remarkable, and she has a strong record in both cross-country and track events.

The field is further strengthened by the presence of Edna Kiplagat, a two-time world champion, Mary Ngugi-Cooper, Viola Cheptoo, Molly Huddle, and Kellyn Taylor, all aiming to make their mark in New York.