Hellen Obiri Claims Second Place in A Thrilling Battle Through London
Obiri Shatters Personal Best to Secure Silver in Record-Breaking Duel
LONDON, UK- April 26, 2026 – On athlete Hellen Obiri secured a hard-fought second-place finish in the marathon in London today in a time of 02:15:53, maintaining her remarkable streak of elite performances at the world’s most competitive races. Facing a field of world-record holders and Olympic champions, Obiri’s tenacity was on full display as she battled through the final miles to secure her second-place finish.
Today’s result further reinforces Obiri’s status as one of the most consistent distance runners in the world. Following her historic victories in Boston and New York City, standing on the podium in the British capital marks another elite chapter in her marathon career. It is a poignant return for the Kenyan star, who earned her 5,000m World Championship title in this same city in 2017.
The pace remained relentless throughout the 26.2 miles, with the lead group pushing toward historic splits. Obiri stayed at the heart of the battle, covering every move. Tigst Assefa (ETH), Joyciline Jepkosgei (KEN), and Obiri formed the lead pack that, by kilometer 10, was already ahead of the women ’s-only world record pace, completing the first kilometers in 30.03. At the 15km mark, the trend continued, and by the halfway mark, the group was 28 seconds ahead of the record, coming through the 21km in 01:06.12.
The group remaind ahead of the world record pace, as the kilometers moved towards the finish line, and with the final turn onto the mall, it was Assefa who had the last bit in her legs to break away and take her second consecutive win and lowering the women’s only world record to 02:15:41. Obiri crossed the finish line in an incredible second place, below the old women’s only record and setting a new personal record of 02:15:53.
“I gave everything I had on the streets of London today,” said Hellen Obiri. “This city holds so many memories for me from when I won the World Championship on the track in 2017, and while I didn't get the win today, standing on the podium here is a huge honor. The pace was incredibly fast and the competition was world-class, but I finished knowing I left nothing behind on the course. I am so thankful to Laura, my family, and all the fans out there—your energy truly carried me through those final miles.”
Her coach, Laura Thweatt, followed the race from the sidelines, spoke on the incredible achievement of Obiri: “A podium finish in London is an incredible achievement, especially given the depth of this year's field and the blistering pace. This city has such a rich history for both Hellen and myself from our races here in 2017, and seeing her compete at the front of the pack today was moving. This was our first time tackling a major flat course together, and seeing her adapt her strength to this speed was inspiring. Her consistency at the world-class level remains her greatest strength, and this second marathon block together has only deepened my respect for her. I’m immensely proud of how she handled the pressure of this course—it was a spectacular effort from a truly legendary athlete.”
About Hellen Obiri
Hellen Obiri is one of the most decorated and versatile distance runners in history. Hailing from Kisii, Kenya, Obiri first rose to global prominence on the track, where she became a two-time World Champion in the 5,000m and a three-time Olympic Medalist. Her legendary finishing kick and tactical range have seen her claim major titles across nearly every discipline, from the 1,500m to the marathon.
In 2022, Obiri made the bold transition to the marathon, moving her training base to Boulder, Colorado, to join the On Athletics Club (OAC) under the guidance of coach Dathan Ritzenhein and since 2025 under Laura Thweatt. Since then, she has redefined the limits of the sport. In a historic 2023 season, Obiri became the first woman in 34 years to win both the Boston and New York City Marathons in the same calendar year—a feat that cemented her status as the most formidable force in women’s distance running.
With a career that spans World Championship gold in London (2017) to major marathon victories on the world’s most challenging courses, Obiri continues to build a legacy as a global sporting icon and a pioneer for Kenyan athletics.
About On
On was born in the Swiss Alps in 2010 with the mission to ignite the human spirit through movement – a mission that still guides the brand today. Sixteen years after market launch, On delivers industry-disrupting innovation in premium footwear, apparel and accessories for high-performance running, outdoor, training, all-day activities and tennis. On’s award-winning CloudTec® and LightSpray™ innovation, purposeful design and groundbreaking strides within the circular economy have attracted a fast-growing global fan base – inspiring humans to explore, discover and Dream On.
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