The 129th Boston Marathon begins this Monday, April 21st. A legendary race dominated by the international elite, with a strong African presence. The Boston Marathon, the oldest of the modern marathons, takes place in the streets of Massachusetts (Northeastern United States), with several African celebrities competing.

Hellen Obiri Seeking a Historic Triple Win

Kenyan Hellen Obiri, two-time title holder (2023 and 2024), is aiming for a third consecutive victory, a feat achieved by only four female runners in the history of the race. She will face formidable Ethiopians like Amane Beriso (personal best time of 2:14:58, the 5th best performance by a woman in history) and Yalemzerf Yehualaw.

Sisay Lemma, Ethiopian favorite in the men’s race

In the men’s race, Ethiopian Sisay Lemma, winner in 2024, will defend his title with a personal best of 2:01:48. He will face Kenyan Evans Chebet, two-time winner (2021 and 2022), and John Korir, recent winner of the Chicago Marathon in 2:02:44.

Other competitors to watch

Kenya’s Sharon Lokedi, second in 2024, represents a serious challenger for Obiri. In the men’s field, Africans are expected to dominate the top positions, continuing the tradition of this legendary course.

The United States will be well represented by Keira D’Amato, Emma Bates, Des Linden, and Dakotah Popehn, who know the local terrain well.

This edition promises to be an East African duel with historic stakes, particularly for Obiri, who could join the pantheon of Boston legends.

A route through eight cities

Despite its prestige, the Boston Marathon is not approved for world record purposes. This is due in part to its numerous elevation changes (over 100 meters) and a start that is too far from the finish (over 38 kilometers), according to World Athletics rules.

The route crosses eight cities: from Hopkinton to Boston, via Ashland, Framingham, Natick, Wellesley, Newton, and Brookline, before an iconic finish on Boylston Street in Copley Square, in downtown Boston.