John Korir eyes Chicago Marathon after second place at Boilermaker 15km race

Two times Los Angeles Marathon champion John Korir has confirmed participation in the Chicago Marathon set for October 8 in the United States of America (USA).

The younger brother to former Boston Marathon champion Wesley Korir will be seeking his maiden Chicago Marathon win after finishing third last year in 2:05.01, behind champion compatriot Benson Kipruto (2:04.24) and Ethiopia's Seif Tura, who placed second in 2:04.49.  Bernard Koech (2:07.01) and Ethiopia's Shifera Tamiru at 2:07.53 completed the top five places in last year's event.

Korir is fresh from finishing second at the Boilermaker 15km road race behind Ethiopian Jemal Yimer last Sunday.

“I was using the Sunday race as part of my training ahead of the Chicago Marathon. Last year, Chicago Marathon was too tough but I want to try my luck this year,” said Korir.

At Bolmaker’s race, Korir said he lost the title in the last kick to finish second in 42:13 behind Yimer (42:06). Kenya’s Charles Langat completed the podium in 42:28.

“He beat me in the last stretch of the race after I miscalculated. However, I thank God for the second position considering the event was very competitive,” he said.

“I normally run two marathons a year plus a few short races as built-up for the World Marathon Majors across the world. Races in the USA have always been my priority,” he added.

Korir said his aim is to once again finish on the podium but a win but if victory comes his way it will be a bonus. 

Korir has been out of competition since finishing ninth in 2:1004 in a race won by compatriot Benson Kipruto in the Boston Marathon last April.

“Before heading to Chicago, he will be competing at the Falmouth 12km race on August 20. 

In women's cadre, Kenya’s Jesca Chelangat won the Boilermakers 15km after timing 47:31. She was followed by Sarah Naibei (48:45) and Cynthia Limo (48:50).

Chelangat broke the course record set by Edna Kiplagat 13 years ago by 24 seconds. Kiplagat, who was part of the race, placed fourth in 49:10.

posted Friday July 14th
by Emmanuel Sabuni