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Murkomen and Chepkemoi Rule Nairobi Marathon in Style

Murkomen and Chepkemoi Rule Nairobi Marathon in Style
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  • Benson Murkomen clocks 2:08:37 to win the men’s full marathon, earning KSh. 3.5M
  • Emily Chepkemoi wins women’s race in 2:25:52, beating top contenders
  • Justus Limo and Vivian Jerotich finish second in their respective categories
  • Over 16,000 runners from 75 countries took part in the marathon
  • Evans Kipchumba wins the half marathon in 1:01:22

Benson Murkomen Tunyo claimed a memorable win in the men’s category at the 2025 Nairobi City Marathon, clocking 2:08:37, falling just under a minute short of the course record. It was a sweet comeback for the 30-year-old who had placed 8th last year.

Murkomen, who also finished 12th at the Eldoret City Marathon earlier this year, said the race changed for him after the 28km mark.

“At halfway I was struggling, but I picked up pace and pushed through. This win is for my parents,” he shared.

In the women’s full marathon, Emily Chepkemoi proved unstoppable as she crossed the finish line in 2:25:52, securing the top prize. Known for her endurance, she kept her calm early in the race before taking command after the 30km mark.

“I started slow but once I made my move, I never looked back,” said Chepkemoi, who also won this year’s Eldoret City Marathon.

Justus Limo came in second in the men’s race at 2:08:47, followed by Albert Kangogo at 2:09:06. In the women’s race, Vivian Jerotich and Lucy Chelele took second and third positions respectively, with Jerotich finishing at 2:26:33 and Chelele at 2:26:37.

All three top finishers in both categories took home hefty cash prizes, a strong motivator in what is being termed Africa’s richest marathon.

The half marathon event was just as exciting, with Evans Kipchumba Kiyeng delivering a powerful performance, finishing in 1:01:22. Stephen Kimutai and Nahason Kipsang followed closely in a tight contest for podium positions.

The fourth edition of the marathon attracted over 16,000 participants from 75 nations, all racing across the picturesque Nairobi Expressway. With its growing reputation and scenic urban course, the Nairobi City Marathon continues to gain global attention as a must-run event on the calendar.

As the marathon continues to evolve, Murkomen and Chepkemoi’s wins have cemented Kenya’s dominance on home soil once again.