CHICAGO, USA — Uganda’s long-distance star Jacob Kiplimo has stormed to victory at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, clocking a blistering 2 hours, 2 minutes, and 23 seconds (2:02:23) — the fastest time ever by a Ugandan and the 7th fastest in marathon history.
In only his second marathon, Kiplimo displayed exceptional endurance and composure, powering through the streets of Chicago to beat a world-class field and secure his first World Marathon Majors title.
Kiplimo’s victory places him among the elite ranks of global marathon legends, as he becomes the 7th fastest man of all time and sets a new Ugandan national record.
Kenya’s Amos Kipruto finished second in 2:03:54, while his compatriot Alex Masai came third in 2:04:37, setting a personal best.
The Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) congratulated Kiplimo for his historic triumph.
“Congratulations to Jacob Kiplimo on winning the Bank of America Chicago Marathon in stunning fashion,” the federation said in a statement.
“He has set a new Ugandan national record with 2:02:23, making him the seventh-fastest man in marathon history. What a run!”
World Athletics also hailed his performance, declaring him the “Chicago King” in a post on X (formerly Twitter): “Uganda’s @jacobkiplimo2 wins the @ChiMarathon with the 10th fastest time in history — 2:02:23. In just his 2nd ever marathon, he becomes the 7th fastest man of all time and claims his first @WMMajors title.”
Kiplimo, already a World Half Marathon champion and Commonwealth Games gold medalist, has now cemented his status as one of the greatest distance runners of his generation — and a national hero for Uganda.
His triumph comes as the country marks 100 years of organized athletics, making his record-breaking feat even more symbolic.
Final Results:
🥇 Jacob Kiplimo (UGA) — 2:02:23 (National Record, Personal Best)
🥈 Amos Kipruto (KEN) — 2:03:54
🥉 Alex Masai (KEN) — 2:04:37 (Personal Best)