Sheila Chepkirui reclaims New York Marathon crown while Obiri finishes third

Sheila Chepkirui from Kenya reclaimed the women’s New York City Marathon title on Sunday, November 1, 2026, clocking an impressive 2:24:36 to secure her second victory in three years. Her counterpart also from Kenya, Hellen Obiri finished third in a fiercely contested race.

American Jessica McClain separated the two Kenyans, taking second place in 2:24:42, just one second ahead of Obiri, that crossed the line in 2:24:43. Kenya’s Edna Kiplagat finished fourth in 2:25:42, while compatriot Mercy Chelangat came fifth in 2:25:46. SportZone +2

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This victory is another significant achievement for Kenya, a country renowned for producing world-class long-distance runners. Chepkirui’s success reinforces Kenya’s dominance in international marathon running and demonstrates the depth of its female running talent.

Her latest triumph is particularly impressive because she had to overcome a strong challenge from Obiri, who was seeking another New York title. Chepkirui made her decisive move in the closing stages, pulling away in the final 150 metres. World Athletics +1

The result has attracted attention from Kenyan sports media, with The Star Kenya describing Chepkirui's achievement as a return to the New York throne. Other sports outlets have highlighted the dramatic finish and McClain's late sprint past Obiri.

For Kenyan athletics fans, the result offers another reason to celebrate the country's international reputation. Chepkirui's victory also provides an encouraging reminder that Kenyan athletes remain competitive against the world's best. SportZone +2

Chepkirui now adds another prestigious marathon title to her prestigious career, while Obiri's third-place finish underlines Kenya's continued presence among the sport's elite.

A short reminder on the names: The 2026 winner was Sheila Chepkirui, not Sharon Lokedi. Lokedi finished second in the 2025 race, which Obiri won.