Obiri Secures Silver in Thrilling Marathon Finish in New York
Hellen Obiri Secures Second Place in Close Race Against Fellow Kenyan Chepkirui
New York, USA – November 3, 2024 – Hellen Obiri delivered a remarkable performance in the New York City Marathon, clinching silver with a time of 2:24:49, just 14 seconds behind Shelia Chepkirui. The dramatic finish saw Chepkirui pull away in the final 300 meters, preventing Obiri from defending her title. Obiri was the favorite to win after her 2023 New York victory, her triumph in Boston earlier this year, and a bronze at the Paris Olympics.
Obiri's marathon journey in New York has been exceptional. She debuted with a sixth-place finish in 2022, captured the title in 2023, and returned this year as the reigning champion. She started the race alongside a competitive field that included Sharon Lokedi, her Boston runner-up Shelia Chepkirui, with a personal best of 2:17:02, four-time Olympic medalist Vivian Cheruiyot, and 2010 New York champion Edna Kiplagat.
The women’s race was a close-knit affair, with the leading pack staying tightly grouped for most of the distance. Obiri remained strategically positioned within this group as they approached the 35-kilometer mark, where a smaller breakaway formed. With five kilometers remaining, a pack of five runners pushed ahead, with Obiri still in contention. In the final stretch, the competition came down to Obiri and Chepkirui, who seized the lead with 300 meters left to secure victory in 2:24:35, while Obiri crossed the line 14 seconds later.
Reflecting on the race, Obiri expressed her satisfaction:
“I’m happy with my performance today and returning to New York, one of my favorite races. I knew what to expect from the past two years, but 42km are still 42km, and a lot can happen in that distance. I executed my plan to perfection and am really happy with my performance and to end the season on a high.”
Obiri’s 2024 season has been extraordinary, despite challenges. She defended her marathon crown in Boston and claimed bronze at the Paris Olympics, an impressive feat given her limited training due to injury. Obiri remains the only woman to win world titles across cross country, indoor and outdoor track as well as on the road.
Kelsey Quinn, Assistant Coach of the On Athletics Club (OAC), praised Obiri's dedication:
“For Hellen to walk away from New York with a podium place is a fantastic way to end the season. It hasn’t been the easiest, with injuries, falling in the Olympic Marathon, and other setbacks, but she has never let these bring her down. She turned up to training every day, wanting to get better, and today is the culmination of a lot of hard work and determination. She is an inspiration to me, and the entire OAC Team, and has shown the world what is possible with dedication, discipline, and determination.”
Steve DeKoker, Global Head of OAC, lauded Obiri’s resilience and accomplishments:
It's unquestionable that Hellen has entered the conversation for one of the greatest endurance athletes of all time. With two Olympic medals, World XC, indoor and outdoor track titles, two times champion of the marathon in Boston and a title and silver medal in New York City, she continues to dominate endurance running! We are continually amazed at Hellen's dedication to her craft and her belief in herself is infectious and inspiring to all.
The Silver Shoe: The Cloudboom Strike LS
Obiri raced in On’s latest innovation, the Cloudboom Strike LS, featuring LightSpray™ technology, a revolutionary single-step process that minimizes waste and cuts carbon emissions by 75% compared to traditional uppers. The shoe was officially unveiled earlier this year, with Obiri choosing the shoe again to carry her across the 42km distance after she had worn it in her victory in Boston in April. More details and purchasing information are available here.
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. Fourteen 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® 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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