An epic Kenyan clash is expected in the New York Marathon as Hellen Obiri, Sharon Lokedi, Peres Jepchirchir, and Brigid Kosgei will compete on November 5.
Obiri, a Boston Marathon winner, Lokedi, the New York defending champion, Olympic gold medallist Jepchirchir, and world marathon record holder Kosgei will all highlight this year’s competition in New York.
Lokedi hungry
Lokedi, who won the World Athletics Elite Platinum Label road race on her marathon debut in 2022, said she is hungry for more success.
“Last year, I came into the New York City Marathon with the goal of being in the thick of the race, and the result was better than I could have ever hoped for.
“This year, I’m returning with a different mindset, hungry to defend my title and race against the fastest women in the world,” Lokedi told World Athletics.
On the other hand, Obiri – who finished sixth when making her New York Marathon debut last year – revealed why she is more confident than before ahead of this year’s edition.
“With a year of marathon experience now under my belt, a win in Boston, and my move to the US, I’m coming to New York this year with more confidence and in search of a title,” Obiri, a two-time world 5000m champion, said.
In 2021, Jepchirchir registered victory in the New York Marathon when she finished in 2:22:39, which is the third-fastest time in event history.
“I was so disappointed that I couldn’t defend my title in New York last year due to an injury, and winning again in Central Park has been my main motivation as I begin my preparations for the autumn,” Jepchirchir, a two-time world gold medallist, said.
Jepkosgei’s debut
Meanwhile, Jepkosgei is looking for history as she competes in the New York Marathon for the first time.
“I am very excited to make my New York City debut this fall and attempt to win my fourth different major. I am not worried about the course, as I have had success in hilly marathons before.
“New York has always been about head-to-head competition, and I know I must be in the best possible shape to compete with the other women in the race,” the Chicago, London, and Tokyo marathons winner said.
