'World Record! Kelvin Kiptum Kenya Runs 2023 Chicago Marathon in 2:00:35'

Kenyan runner Kelvin Kiptum breaks world record at Chicago Marathon, running 2:00:35, earning $100,000 for the victory.

Kelvin Kiptum, a 23-year-old athlete from Kenya, has made history by breaking the world record at the Chicago Marathon. In an impressive display of skill and determination, Kiptum finished the race in a remarkable time of 2:00:35, surpassing the previous record of 2:01:09 set by Eliud Kipchoge in Berlin the previous year.

What makes Kiptum's achievement even more remarkable is the fact that this was only his third marathon. Just like in his previous two races, Kiptum ran the second half of the marathon faster than the first. He completed the first half in 1:00:48 and then shaved off even more time, finishing the second half in an astonishing 59:47.

Benson Kipruto, also from Kenya and the defending champion of the race, came in second place with a time of 2:04:02. Bashir Abdi from Belgium, the reigning Olympic bronze medalist, secured the third spot with a time of 2:04:32.

From the very beginning of his career, Kiptum showed immense potential to break the world record. In his debut marathon in Valencia in December 2022, he finished with a time of 2:01:53, which was then the fifth-fastest time in history. Just four months later, he outdid himself by winning the London Marathon in 2:01:25, making it the second-fastest time ever recorded, second only to his fellow countryman Kipchoge.

During the Chicago Marathon, Kiptum faced tough competition from Daniel Mateiko, another Kenyan athlete who was making his marathon debut. Mateiko, 25, had prior experience pacing Kiptum in the London Marathon for the first 30 kilometers (18.6 miles). He also boasted an impressive personal best of 58:26 for the half marathon, having broken the 59-minute mark five times.

However, as the race progressed, Kiptum showcased his exceptional stamina and speed. He ran the 19th mile in an astonishing 4:21, quickly leaving Mateiko behind. Kiptum's split from 30 to 35 kilometers (18.6 to 21.7 miles) was an impressive 13:51, putting him on track for a potential world record. He continued to dominate, completing the 22nd mile in just 4:18.

Interestingly, in the press conference held two days before the race, Kiptum did not mention his goal of breaking the world record. Instead, he focused on surpassing the course record of 2:03:45, set by Dennis Kimetto in 2013. However, with the race starting at a pace of 60:40, it became evident that Kiptum had the potential to achieve something truly extraordinary.

In recognition of his outstanding performance, Kiptum was awarded a prize of $100,000 for his victory, along with an additional $50,000 bonus for breaking the course record.

Kelvin Kiptum's triumph at the Chicago Marathon is a testament to his incredible talent and dedication. With only three marathons under his belt, he has already etched his name in the history books. As he continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in long-distance running, the world eagerly awaits his future accomplishments.