Sisay Lemma Dominates 2024 Boston Marathon, Wins in 2:06:17

Sisay Lemma of Ethiopia won the 2024 Boston Marathon in dominant fashion on Monday, finishing the race in 2 hours, 6 minutes, and 17 seconds - the 10th fastest time in the race's 128-year history. Lemma, who had previously set a course record in Valencia with a time of 2:01:48, established himself as one of the top marathon runners in the world.

The 34-year-old Ethiopian took the lead early on, running the first half of the race in a blistering 1:00:19. Despite the challenging course and mid-60s temperatures, Lemma maintained his pace and built a substantial lead over his competitors. He finished 41 seconds ahead of fellow Ethiopian Mohamed Esa, who came in second with a time of 2:06:58. Last year's winner, Kenyan Evans Chebet, finished third in 2:07:22.

In the women's race, Hellen Obiri of Kenya defended her title, leading a Kenyan podium sweep with a time of 2:22:37. Obiri, the only woman to have won senior world titles indoors, outdoors, and at cross country, thanked her closest competitor, Sharon Lokedi, for pushing her throughout the race.

Why this matters: The Boston Marathon is one of the most prestigious and historic marathons in the world, attracting elite runners from across the globe. Lemma's dominant performance and Obiri's successful title defense showcase the continued dominance of Ethiopian and Kenyan runners in long-distance running. Their victories also serve as an inspiration for aspiring runners worldwide.

The 2024 Boston Marathon attracted over 30,000 participants from 129 countries and all 50 U.S. states. The event was held on the same day as One Boston Day, which honors the victims, survivors, and first responders of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings. Lemma expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to compete in the iconic race, saying, "I'm very tired, but I'm also very happy to win the Boston Marathon." It's a dream come true."

Key Takeaways

• Sisay Lemma of Ethiopia won the 2024 Boston Marathon in 2:06:17, the 10th fastest time.
• Hellen Obiri of Kenya defended her Boston Marathon title with a time of 2:22:37.
• The Boston Marathon attracted over 30,000 participants from 129 countries and all 50 U.S. states.
• The event was held on the same day as One Boston Day, honoring the 2013 bombings.
• Lemma and Obiri's victories showcase the dominance of Ethiopian and Kenyan runners in long-distance running.