Kenya's Sheila Chepkirui beats compatriot Hellen Obiri to reclaim New York City Marathon crown

Kenya's Sheila Chepkirui beats compatriot Hellen Obiri to reclaim New York City Marathon crown - Sheila Chepkirui reclaimed the New York City Marathon crown after edging Jessica McClain and compatriot Hellen Obiri in a thrilling finish, with Kenya securing four of the top five places. (Photo: Handout)

The Kenyan clocked 2:24:36 to secure her second New York Marathon title, edging Jessica McClain and defending champion Hellen Obiri in a thrilling seven-second finish.

Kenya’s Sheila Chepkirui reclaimed the New York City Marathon women’s title on Sunday with a thrilling victory, edging American Jessica McClain and compatriot Hellen Obiri in a dramatic finish that saw the top three separated by just seven seconds.

Chepkirui crossed the finish line in 2:24:36 to secure her second New York City Marathon crown, adding to her maiden victory in 2024.

American Jessica McClain finished second in 2:24:42, just 6.19 seconds behind the Kenyan, while defending champion Hellen Obiri settled for third in 2:24:43.

The women's race delivered an exciting contest across New York's five boroughs, with the leading athletes exchanging positions as the competition intensified towards the finish.

Chepkirui showed her consistency by leading at the 20km, 25km and 30km checkpoints before compatriot Obiri surged ahead at the 35km mark.

However, the former champion responded strongly, reclaiming the lead at the 40km checkpoint, with Obiri trailing by just 0.04 seconds and McClain still firmly in contention.

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Chepkirui then summoned her finishing strength over the closing 2.2 kilometres to pull away from her challengers and secure the coveted title.

Her victory marked a successful return to the top of the podium in New York, while Obiri missed the opportunity to claim a third victory at the prestigious marathon.

Obiri, who won the 2025 edition in a course-record 2:19:51, entered the race as the defending champion but settled for third place this time.

Kenya also had an impressive overall showing, with Edna Kiplagat finishing fourth in 2:25:42 and Mercy Chelangat finishing fifth in 2:25:46.

2026 New York City Marathon – Women's Elite Top Five

1. Sheila Chepkirui (Kenya) – 2:24:36

2. Jessica McClain (USA) – 2:24:42

3. Hellen Obiri (Kenya) – 2:24:43

4. Edna Kiplagat (Kenya) – 2:25:42

5. Mercy Chelangat (Kenya) – 2:25:46