The 47th annual Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, October 12, 2025, was a spectacle of endurance, resilience, and record-breaking performances that will be talked about for years to come. With more than 50,000 athletes pounding the streets of the Windy City, the event showcased not only elite runners vying for the finish line but also a remarkable demonstration of human spirit from competitors determined to prove that limitations are only as strong as you allow them to be.
Uganda's Jacob Kiplimo stole the spotlight in the men's competition, setting the fastest time in the history of the Chicago Marathon. Kiplimo, just 24 years old, blazed through the 26.2-mile course in 2 hours, 2 minutes, and 23 seconds—an astonishing performance that left his nearest rival, Amos Kipruto of Kenya, more than 90 seconds behind. Kiplimo's achievement was made all the more remarkable considering this was only his second-ever marathon. According to race organizers, his time is now second only to Kelvin Kiptum's world record of 2 hours, 35 seconds, set in Chicago in 2023.
The sense of history was palpable as Kiplimo crossed the finish line with no competitors in sight. The Bank of America Chicago Marathon celebrated his run with a jubilant social media post, stating, "An incredible performance, congratulations, Jacob!" The video of Kiplimo's decisive finish quickly made the rounds online, capturing the awe and excitement of spectators and fellow athletes alike.
But the men's podium wasn't the only place where records were shattered. Conner Mantz of Utah delivered a performance for the ages, finishing fourth overall with a time of 2 hours, 4 minutes, and 43 seconds. That time set a new benchmark—the fastest marathon ever run by an American, not just in Chicago but in any marathon race. The Bank of America Chicago Marathon didn't hesitate to highlight this achievement, proudly declaring, "This is the City of Records," as the event now boasts both men's and women's world and American records in its illustrious history.
On the women's side, Ethiopia's Hawi Feysa claimed victory with a commanding run. Feysa finished in 2 hours, 14 minutes, and 57 seconds, outpacing her fellow countrywoman Megertu Alemu by a full 2 minutes and 21 seconds. Feysa's performance was a masterclass in pacing and determination, and it solidified Ethiopia's continued dominance in women's distance running. For the American contingent, Natosha Rogers delivered the fastest time by an American woman in the race, crossing the line in 2 hours, 23 minutes, and 28 seconds—a personal and national milestone that drew cheers from fans along the course.
Yet, amid the elite competition, one runner's journey stood out as a testament to perseverance and the power of support. Milan Petrović, a runner from Serbia who has been blind since the age of 11, completed the Chicago Marathon with a time of 4 hours, 12 minutes, and 51 seconds. Petrović's story is nothing short of inspiring. Already an accomplished endurance athlete, he has previously competed in an Ironman triathlon in Romania and notched up 30 half marathons. The Chicago Marathon marked another milestone in his quest to complete all seven major marathons around the globe.
Petrović's accomplishment was made possible with the dedicated help of his guide, Dejan Ivankovic, who was by his side every step of the way. Their teamwork and determination captured the admiration of fellow runners and spectators. As Petrović put it, his goal is to run all seven major marathons, and after Sunday, "he now has six left to go." The duo's presence on the course served as a powerful reminder that the marathon is as much about the journey as it is about the time on the clock.
The stories emerging from this year's Chicago Marathon are as diverse as the field itself. From the front-runners to those chasing personal bests and lifelong dreams, the event continues to be a showcase of human achievement and community spirit. The marathon's reputation as a record-breaking venue has only grown, with both the men's and women's world and American records now associated with its storied streets. For the city of Chicago, the marathon is more than a race—it's a celebration of resilience, ambition, and unity.
For Kiplimo, the victory in only his second marathon is a bold statement to the distance running world. With a time just shy of the world record, he has announced himself as a serious contender for future global titles. Mantz's American record signals a new era for U.S. distance running, inspiring a generation of runners to dream bigger and push harder. Feysa's triumph continues Ethiopia's proud tradition of excellence, while Rogers' performance ensures American women remain firmly in the conversation on the world stage.
As for Petrović, his journey is far from over. The Chicago finish line was just one stop on a much larger adventure. His determination to tackle all seven major marathons speaks not only to his own resilience but also to the importance of support networks and the inclusive spirit of the running community. Ivankovic's role as a guide highlights the collaborative nature of such achievements, reminding us that no one truly runs alone.
With the 47th edition now in the books, the Chicago Marathon continues to set the standard for what a major race can be. The combination of world-class athleticism, personal triumphs, and a city that embraces the marathon spirit ensures that each year brings new stories worth telling. Whether it's the roar of the crowd as a champion breaks the tape or the quiet determination of a runner like Petrović crossing the finish with his guide, the Chicago Marathon remains a beacon for athletes and fans alike.
As the marathon world looks ahead to future races, the echoes of Sunday's achievements will linger. Records may be broken, but the memories forged on the streets of Chicago endure, inspiring runners everywhere to chase their own finish lines—no matter the obstacles in their way.
