Hellen Obiri is a generational talent. But when the two-time Olympic medalist in the 5,000 meters announced that she was moving up to the marathon in 2022, doubts circulated that her loping stride, swinging arm carriage, and up-and-down bob would translate to the 26.2-mile distance.
“Many people thought Hellen would struggle with the marathon because of her uncharacteristic style, but I think that is misplaced and misunderstood. She is actually incredibly resilient in her strides,” her coach Dathan Ritzenhein said. “She is an incredible downhill runner.”
Sure enough, her gangly stride did the talking—especially when the hills mattered most. Obiri won the 2023 Boston Marathon in just her second crack at the distance. She went on to win the New York City Marathon that fall and defended her Boston title last spring, adding a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympic marathon to her accolades as well.
Now, the 35-year-old from Kenya is back to try and claim an elusive three-peat at the Boston Marathon on Monday, April 21.
Few have accomplished this feat in the race’s 129-year history. It’s been almost 30 years since Fatuma Roba (Ethiopia) triumphed in 1997-1999, the fourth and final woman to win the Boston Marathon three consecutive times. (Kenya’s Robert Kipkoech Cheruiyot last did it in 2006-2008 for the men.)
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