Running News Daily

Boston Marathon weekend kicked off in thrilling fashion on Saturday, April 19, with the 2025 B.A.A. 5K presented by Harvard Pilgrim Health Care. Over 10,000 runners took to the streets of Boston for a fast and festive race that culminated at one of the sport’s most iconic locations: the Boston Marathon finish line on Boylston Street.

This year’s edition featured a reimagined course, fierce competition, and inspiring performances from pros, legends, and everyday runners alike.

Men’s Race: Seare Surges for Victory

Eritrea’s Dawit Seare stole the show in the men’s race, clocking 13:33 to edge out Britain’s Patrick Dever (13:35) and Kenya’s Amon Kemboi (13:37) in a tightly contested finish. The new course and big-race atmosphere brought out the best in the top competitors.

Women’s Race: Hambese Leads Sub-15 Trio

In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Gela Hambese powered to victory in 14:53, with Kenya’s Grace Loibach just behind in 14:55. American Taylor Roe had a breakthrough performance, finishing third in 14:57—her first time under 15 minutes for the distance.

New Course, New Energy

This year’s redesigned course started near Boston Public Garden, swept through Commonwealth Avenue and Kenmore Square, and ended with a triumphant stretch down Boylston Street. For many, finishing on the Boston Marathon line was a bucket-list moment.

Running Legends Join the Fun

A host of familiar faces took part in this year’s 5K. Former Boston Marathon champions Uta Pippig and Meb Keflezighi crossed the line in 22:28 and 18:44 respectively, showing they’ve still got it. Red Sox manager Alex Cora joined the field as well, finishing in 24:47.

Running icon Kara Goucher, the 2007 World Championships silver medalist, won the 45–49 age group with a time of 19:18.

Prize Money and Prestige

The top male and female finishers each earned $8,000, with additional prize money awarded in the Masters and para-athletics divisions. The B.A.A. 5K continues to attract one of the deepest 5K fields in the country—and with its world-class course, it’s easy to see why.

A Strong Start to Boston Weekend

The 2025 B.A.A. 5K once again proved why it’s one of the most popular 5Ks in the world. Fast times, rich tradition, and an unmatched finish line experience made this year’s race a standout beginning to Boston’s legendary weekend of running.