Top five fastest women marathoners in the world

Discover the top 5 fastest female marathoners in the world, featuring record-breaking athletes from Kenya and Ethiopia who continue to redefine the sport.

Kenya and Ethiopia, long-standing powerhouses in long-distance running, are known for producing some of the greatest female marathoners of all time, consistently setting new records and redefining athletic excellence.

Athletes such as Ruth Chepngetich of Kenya and Tigst Assefa of Ethiopia have not only dominated the marathon world but have also broken significant barriers with their remarkable times.

The competitive landscape of the World Marathon Majors (WMM) — including iconic races like the Berlin Marathon, Chicago Marathon, and London Marathon — has seen historic performances from these and other top runners.

In this article, we review the top 5 fastest female marathoners in the world, analyzing their breakthrough races, their contributions to the sport, and how they continue to inspire future generations of athletes.

5. Amane Beriso Shankule (Ethiopia) – 2:14:58

Rounding out the top 5 is Amane Beriso Shankule of Ethiopia, whose incredible performance at the 2022 Valencia Marathon earned her a place among the fastest female marathoners. Shankule completed the race in 2:14:58, showcasing her strength and determination in long-distance running.

Although still relatively new to the elite marathon circuit, Shankule’s time places her in an elite group of women who have broken the 2:15 barrier. Ethiopia has long been a dominant force in long-distance running, and Shankule’s success further underscores the depth of talent in the country. Her performance in Valencia will likely serve as a stepping stone to even greater achievements in the future.

4. Brigid Kosgei (Kenya) – 2:14:04

Brigid Kosgei of Kenya is no stranger to marathon success, having made history during the 2019 Chicago Marathon. On October 13, 2019, Kosgei crossed the finish line in 2:14:04, breaking the previous world record and establishing herself as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

Kosgei’s performance in Chicago was groundbreaking, as she broke the world record that had stood for over 16 years. Her run was characterized by her smooth stride and exceptional stamina, which allowed her to dominate the race from start to finish. Her record time remained unbeaten until 2023 when Tigst Assefa surpassed it.

Kosgei’s marathon career has been illustrious, with multiple wins in prestigious events such as the London Marathon. Her success has further cemented Kenya’s reputation as a global leader in marathon running. Although her record was eventually broken, Kosgei’s achievements remain a significant chapter in the history of women’s marathoning.

3. Sifan Hassan (Netherlands) – 2:13:44

In third place is Sifan Hassan, a Dutch athlete known for her incredible versatility. Originally a middle-distance runner, Hassan shocked the world when she ran the 2023 Chicago Marathon in 2:13:44, marking her debut in the marathon with one of the fastest times ever recorded by a woman.

Hassan’s ability to transition from track events to the marathon is nothing short of exceptional. Her success in the 1,500m, 5,000m, and 10,000m events — where she has multiple Olympic and World Championship titles — clearly translated well to the marathon. Her 2023 performance in Chicago not only placed her among the fastest female marathoners but also demonstrated the potential for athletes to excel across different distances.

Hassan’s achievement has inspired many young runners, especially those who see her as a symbol of athletic versatility. By running one of the fastest marathons on her debut, Hassan proved that success in the marathon does not always require years of specialized training in the event.

2. Tigst Assefa (Ethiopia) – 2:11:53

Second on the list is Ethiopian sensation Tigst Assefa, who delivered a breathtaking performance at the 2023 Berlin Marathon. On September 24, 2023, Assefa finished the race in 2:11:53, setting a new course record and breaking the previous world record for female marathoners at the time. This monumental run placed her firmly among the fastest women in marathon history.

Assefa’s journey to the top has been remarkable. A former middle-distance runner, she transitioned to marathon running with great success, demonstrating her versatility across different distances. Assefa’s victory also highlighted Ethiopia’s dominance in marathon running, adding her name to a long list of world-class Ethiopian athletes who have left their mark on the sport.

With her record-breaking time, Assefa solidified her position as one of the greatest marathoners of all time.

1. Ruth Chepngetich (Kenya) – 2:09:56

Ruth Chepngetich stands as the fastest female marathoner in history, having recently shattered records at the 2024 Chicago Marathon. On October 13, 2024, Chepngetich clocked a stunning time of 2:09:56, becoming the first woman to break the 2:10 barrier. This incredible achievement has cemented her position as the top female marathoner globally.

Known for her aggressive pacing and strong endurance, Chepngetich’s performance in Chicago was nothing short of extraordinary. She had already been a prominent figure in the marathon world, having won the 2019 World Championships Marathon in extreme heat conditions. However, her 2024 run in Chicago redefined what was possible for women in the marathon, establishing her as a trailblazer in the sport.

Chepngetich’s ability to push boundaries continues to inspire countless female athletes, especially those from Kenya, where marathon running has become a symbol of national pride. Her record-breaking marathon will undoubtedly remain a benchmark for years to come.

posted Tuesday October 15th
by Festus Chuma