The Bank of America Chicago Marathon 2025 promises to be one of the most exciting running events of the year. The elite athletes – both men and women – have impressive profiles, with record holders, Olympic medalists, and debutants ready to make a mark. This year, the world’s eyes will be on Chicago, where another historic result may be achieved.
Men’s Elite: Korir Aims for Sub-2:01
John Korir, the 2024 winner with a time of 2:02:44, returns to Chicago as the favorite. After his triumph in Boston, he proved his form is no fluke. In 2025, he is targeting a sub-2:01 finish – a barrier officially broken only by Kelvin Kiptum (2:00:35 in 2023).
Korir will not be alone. Among his rivals are many outstanding athletes.
Men’s Elite
Chicago Marathon 2025
| Athlete | Country | Personal Best |
|---|---|---|
| John Korir | KEN | 2:02:44 |
| Timothy Kiplagat | KEN | 2:02:55 |
| Amos Kipruto | KEN | 2:03:13 |
| CyBrian Kotut | KEN | 2:03:22 |
| Bashir Abdi | BEL | 2:03:36 |
| Jacob Kiplimo | UGA | 2:03:37 |
| Philemon Kiplimo | KEN | 2:04:01 |
| Geoffrey Kamworor | KEN | 2:04:23 |
| Seifu Tura | ETH | 2:04:29 |
| Huseydin Mohamed Esa | ETH | 2:04:39 |
| Daniel Ebenyo | KEN | 2:06:04 |
| Galen Rupp | USA | 2:06:07 |
| Hiroto Inoue | JPN | 2:06:14 |
| Zouhair Talbi | MAR | 2:06:39 |
| Conner Mantz | USA | 2:07:47 |
| Rory Linkletter | CAN | 2:08:01 |
| Alex Masai | KEN | 2:08:03 |
| CJ Albertson | USA | 2:08:17 |
| Jia Erenjia | CHN | 2:08:32 |
| Haftu Knight | USA | 2:09:38 |
| Andrew Colley | USA | 2:09:46 |
It’s worth watching Conner Mantz, who ran 2:05:08 in Boston – a result not eligible for records, but demonstrating his huge potential. Mantz is targeting the US record (2:05:38) and North American record (2:05:36).
Women’s Elite: A New Champion Ahead?
In the women’s race, last year’s winner will not compete, opening the path for a new champion. Megertu Alemu of Ethiopia, third in Chicago 2023 and winner in Valencia, returns with the aim to improve her PB of 2:16:34.
She will be joined by other strong competitors.
Women’s Elite
Chicago Marathon 2025
| Athlete | Country | Personal Best |
|---|---|---|
| Megertu Alemu | ETH | 2:16:34 |
| Hawi Feysa | ETH | 2:17:00 |
| Bedatu Hirpa | ETH | 2:18:27 |
| Haven Hailu Desse | ETH | 2:19:17 |
| Mary Ngugi-Cooper | KEN | 2:20:22 |
| Calli Hauger-Thackery | GBR | 2:21:24 |
| Natosha Rogers | USA | 2:23:51 |
| Florencia Borelli | ARG | 2:24:18 |
| Gabi Rooker | USA | 2:24:29 |
| Dakotah Popehn | USA | 2:24:40 |
| Melody Julien | FRA | 2:25:01 |
| Makenna Myler | USA | 2:26:14 |
| Marta Galimany | ESP | 2:26:14 |
| Aubrey Frentheway | USA | 2:27:14 |
| Maggie Montoya | USA | 2:27:50 |
| Loice Chemnung | KEN | Debut |
| Ejgayehu Taye | ETH | Debut |
| Emily Venters | USA | Debut |
Also worth watching are the debut performances of Loice Chemnung (KEN), Ejgayehu Taye (ETH) – World Championships medalist at 10,000m – and Emily Venters (USA). Their first attempts at the marathon distance could bring surprises.
Global Competition and Excitement on the Course
Chicago Marathon 2025 is not only a quest for records, but also a showcase of world-class competition. Kenyans, Ethiopians, Americans, Europeans, and Asians – all will meet on a single course to push the limits of human capability. Runners with sub-2:04 personal bests among men and sub-2:17 among women guarantee a thrilling spectacle at the highest level.
See Also: Chicago Marathon 2025 Course Guide
If you’re planning to cheer or run in Chicago, be sure to check my course guide. You’ll find the course map, aid stations, cheering zones and practical advice to help you make your day perfect.
📸 Chicago Marathon
