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Kipruto breaks Tokyo Marathon record as Kipchoge endures career-worst finish

Benson Kipruto poses for a photo after winning the 2024 Tokyo Marathon © Tokyo Marathon Foundation

By Rama Mohammed | 03 Mar 2024

Benson Kipruto made headlines at the Tokyo Marathon by shattering the course record, contrasting sharply with Eliud Kipchoge's unexpected struggle, as he recorded his worst-ever finish in 10th place.

Former Boston and Chicago Marathon champion Benson Kipruto led a Kenyan sweep at the Tokyo Marathon early Sunday morning, setting a blazing new course record of 2 hours, 2 minutes, and 16 seconds. Meanwhile, Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge faced a disheartening setback, finishing a disappointing 10th.

Kipruto's remarkable performance not only secured victory but also shattered Kipchoge’s previous course record of 2:02:40 seconds set two years ago. He led his compatriots Timothy Kiplagat and Vincent Ngetich to a podium sweep, with Kiplagat clocking 2:02: 55 seconds for second place, and Ngetich finishing third in 2:04:18.

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For Kipchoge, who aimed to use the marathon as preparation for the defense of his Olympic Games title in Paris, it marked a rare stumble in his illustrious career, only the third time he has lost a marathon. Despite initially running with the lead pack and sticking close to the pacemakers, Kipchoge struggled to maintain pace and fell behind as the race progressed.

Meanwhile, in the women’s race, Kenya’s Rosemary Wanjiru secured second place with a time of 2 hours, 16 minutes, and 14 seconds, while Ethiopia’s Asefa Kebede claimed victory, clocking 2 hours, 15 minutes, and 55 seconds to break Brigid Kosgei’s previous course record.

As Kipchoge returned to the city where he previously triumphed, hopes were high for a repeat victory. However, as the race unfolded, it became evident that Kipruto was the one to watch, gradually distancing himself from the competition as Kipchoge struggled to keep up. Despite his efforts, Kipchoge's pace faltered, and he found himself falling behind significantly as the rain intensified.

Congratulations Benson Kipruto, Timothy Kiplagat and Vincent Kipkemoi Ngetich for the breathtaking podium sweep in the Tokyo Marathon. Your hard work and dedication to the sport have earned you all respect globally, and it makes us very proud of you. Cheers! pic.twitter.com/3bBMmriKu7
— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) March 3, 2024

By the 35-kilometer mark, Kipchoge had slipped to 11th place, a stark contrast to his usual podium finishes. Meanwhile, Kipruto maintained a commanding lead, effortlessly extending the gap between himself and his fellow runners.

In the final stretch, Kipruto's dominance was undeniable as he surged ahead, leaving no doubt about his victory. His exceptional performance not only secured the Tokyo Marathon title but also served as a reminder of the fierce competition awaiting in the upcoming Olympic Games.