Kenyan runner John Korir delivered a historic performance at the 130th Boston Marathon, not only defending his championship but setting a blistering new course record in the process.
Korir completed the legendary 26.2-mile course in 2:01:52, slicing a remarkable one minute and ten seconds off the previous record set by compatriot Geoffrey Mutai back in 2011. The 29-year-old's time now stands as the fifth fastest marathon ever recorded.
"This year was a breeze for me because I had no problems at the start or at the finish," Korir reflected after the race. "It felt like a race back home with all the people cheering. It was in my mind to set the course record and I thank God that he fulfilled my wishes."
The victory marks Korir's second consecutive Boston Marathon triumph and continues his impressive winning streak that includes recent victories at the Chicago Marathon in 2024 and the Valencia Marathon last December. His performance was particularly notable given his dramatic recovery from an early fall during last year's Boston victory.
Women's champion Sharon Lokedi also successfully defended her title, crossing the finish line in 2:18:51. While she didn't break her own course record of 2:17:22 set last year, the Kenyan runner finished 44 seconds ahead of fellow countrywoman Loice Chemnung.
"I just kept telling myself 'Be patient, be humble, you can do this'," Lokedi shared. "And then I saw a little girl who said 'You got this, ladies!' And it was so cute, and that was what I needed."
Lokedi, who previously won the 2022 New York Marathon, demonstrated remarkable composure throughout the challenging course.
In another inspiring story from the race, Britain's Calli Hauger-Thackery completed the marathon while 22 weeks pregnant, finishing in 2:43:58. The 33-year-old athlete has previously won both the Honolulu Marathon while four weeks pregnant and the Houston Marathon just one month later, showcasing extraordinary dedication to her sport.
The 2026 Boston Marathon saw both defending champions return to the podium in dominant fashion, with Korir's record-breaking performance standing as the day's most remarkable athletic achievement.