Kelvin Kiptum Wins London Marathon in Stunning Debut

Kenyan runner Kelvin Kiptum made a remarkable debut at the London Marathon on Sunday, winning the men's race in a time of 2:04:40. The 23-year-old pulled away from the field in the final miles to claim victory in his first-ever marathon.

Kiptum's winning time was the second-fastest ever recorded on the London course, just 16 seconds off the record set by fellow Kenyan Eliud Kipchoge in 2019. He finished over a minute ahead of Ethiopian runner Birhane Dibaba, who took second place in 2:05:45.

"I am so happy to win the London Marathon," Kiptum said after the race. "It was my first marathon and to run so fast, I did not expect it. The crowds were amazing and pushed me in the final miles."

Kiptum's performance was all the more impressive given the warm conditions on race day, with temperatures reaching 20 degrees Celsius (68 Fahrenheit). Many pre-race favorites struggled in the heat, but Kiptum looked comfortable throughout.

The young Kenyan's victory continues his country's dominance of the London Marathon. Kenyan men have now won 13 of the last 14 editions of the race. Kiptum's emergence also marks him as a major new talent in marathon running.

Why this matters: Kiptum's stunning debut victory at the London Marathon cements Kenya's status as the dominant force in men's marathon running. His performance also sets up an exciting rivalry with world record holder Eliud Kipchoge going forward.

"Kelvin ran an incredible race today in very tough conditions," said race director Hugh Brasher. "To win the London Marathon at the first attempt and in a time that fast is truly special. He is a remarkable talent and it will be fascinating to see what he can go on to achieve in the coming years."

Key Takeaways

• Kenyan runner Kelvin Kiptum won the London Marathon in 2:04:40, the 2nd-fastest time.
• Kiptum, 23, won his first-ever marathon, finishing over a minute ahead of 2nd place.
• Kiptum's victory continues Kenya's dominance of the London Marathon, winning 13 of the last 14.
• Kiptum's performance sets up an exciting rivalry with world record holder Eliud Kipchoge.
• The race director praised Kiptum's "incredible race" and called him a "remarkable talent".