The 129th Boston Marathon unfolded on Patriots' Day, April 21, 2025, marking another historic chapter in the world's oldest and most prestigious annual marathon. More than 30,000 runners from around the globe took on the grueling 26.2-mile course from Hopkinton to Copley Square, with thrilling performances that highlighted the day.
In the men’s division, John Korir of Kenya claimed victory, clocking an impressive 2:04:45, the second-fastest winning time in race history. Korir's triumph was particularly special as he became the first brother of a previous champion to win the Boston Marathon, following in the footsteps of his older brother Wesley, who took the title in 2012. "I expected him there at the finish line. I had promised him that I am going to win and I made it," John Korir said, celebrating their unique achievement.
The race began with a dramatic twist when Korir stumbled just after the start, losing his race bib in the process. Undeterred, he quickly regained his footing and soon found himself among the leaders. By Mile 20, he pulled away from the pack, leaving behind strong competitors like Alphonce Simbu of Tanzania, who finished second in 2:05:04, and Cybrian Kotut of Kenya, who took third, also clocking 2:05:04. American runner Conner Mantz finished fourth, narrowly missing a podium spot with a time of 2:05:08.
Meanwhile, in the women’s race, Sharon Lokedi also made headlines by smashing the course record with a stunning finish of 2:17:22. Her performance not only secured her victory but also denied defending champion Hellen Obiri a chance at a three-peat. Lokedi's time was more than two minutes faster than the previous record set by Buzunesh Deba in 2014. "I’m always second to her and today I was like: There’s no way," Lokedi remarked, reflecting on her fierce rivalry with Obiri.
Lokedi surged ahead in the final mile, finishing 19 seconds clear of Obiri, who came in second. Ethiopia’s Yalemzerf Yehualaw secured third place with a time of 2:18:06, also well within the old course record. The lead group maintained a blistering pace, reaching the halfway mark in 1:08:46, setting the stage for an exhilarating finish.
This year’s marathon also celebrated the 50th anniversary of the wheelchair division. Marcel Hug of Switzerland, known as "The Silver Bullet," defended his title, winning his eighth Boston Marathon with a time of 1:21:34. Hug’s performance was dominant, finishing well ahead of American Daniel Romanchuk, who crossed the line in 1:25:58. In the women’s wheelchair race, Susannah Scaroni of the United States claimed victory for the second time, finishing in 1:35:20, after a strong performance that saw her pull away from the pack.
The event was not just about the races; it was a day of celebration and community. The Boston Marathon is synonymous with Patriots' Day, a holiday in Massachusetts, and this year was no different. Crowds lined the streets, cheering on their favorite runners, while vendors sold memorabilia and refreshments. Notable participants included former Boston Bruins defenseman Zdeno Chara and reality star Matt James, adding to the festive atmosphere.
As the marathon unfolded, a unique spectacle occurred at the finish line. First Sgt. Matthew Johnson of the National Lancers, dressed as Paul Revere, rode down Boylston Street on horseback, shouting, "The runners are coming, the runners are coming!" This added a historical touch to an already significant day, celebrating not just the marathon but also the legacy of the American Revolution.
Race Director Dave McGillivray expressed pride in the event, stating, "We appreciate their service, and just the fact that it's Patriots' Day gives it even more meaning." The day was filled with emotion, as many runners dedicated their races to loved ones, with stories of perseverance and inspiration shared among participants and spectators alike.
For the American athletes, the day was a mixed bag of triumphs and challenges. Mantz’s fourth-place finish marked him as the top U.S. finisher, while Jess McClain was the top American woman, finishing seventh in 2:22:43. Des Linden, the last American woman to win the Boston Marathon in 2018, announced that this would be her final professional marathon, finishing 17th.
As the sun set on the 2025 Boston Marathon, the excitement lingered in the air. The combination of record-breaking performances, historic achievements, and community spirit made this year’s event one for the books. Runners and fans alike left with memories that would last a lifetime, eagerly anticipating next year’s race.
In the end, the 2025 Boston Marathon was not just a competition; it was a celebration of resilience, history, and the unyielding spirit of the runners who took to the streets of Boston.
