Defending Champion Hellen Obiri Joins Elite Lineup for 128th Boston Marathon

The 128th edition of the Boston Marathon, presented by Bank of America, is gearing up to feature an unprecedentedly strong women's lineup. Leading the pack are returning champions Hellen Obiri. The race will see 19 elite female athletes, each boasting personal records below 2:23:00, vying for the Open Division title. This impressive group includes Olympic veterans, winners of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, and national champions.

Jack Fleming, President and CEO of the Boston Athletic Association, expressed pride in the Boston Marathon's tradition of showcasing top-tier athletes on Patriots' Day. He highlighted the extraordinary speed and international accolades of this year's women's field, anticipating a thrilling competition from Hopkinton to Boston. The winners will be celebrated on April 15.

Participants from 20 different countries will join the Bank of America Professional Athlete Team, elevating the race's global stature.

David Tyrie, Bank of America's chief digital officer and chief marketing officer, remarked on the Boston Marathon's ongoing tradition of attracting exceptional athletic talent and its far-reaching influence.

Defending champion Hellen Obiri, a Kenyan athlete now residing in Colorado, clinched the 2023 Boston Marathon with a strategic final-mile sprint. Obiri, who also secured victories at the 2023 B.A.A. 10K and the TCS New York City Marathon, is eager to defend her title in Boston. She aims to further engrave her name in the race's storied history, cherishing the memory of winning before her family.

Obiri will face formidable competition from a trio of Ethiopians with impressive marathon times. Worknesh Degefa, the 2019 Boston champion, is set to return, while Tadu Teshome and Hiwot Gebremaryam, both with noteworthy performances, are prepared to make their mark. Senbere Teferi, another Ethiopian contender, brings her record-breaking B.A.A. 5K win and long-distance prowess to the race.

Kenya's strong representation includes Judith Korir, Edna Kiplagat, Mary Ngugi-Cooper, and Sharon Lokedi, all with significant marathon achievements. Helah Kiprop, with her diverse international wins, and Morocco's Fatima Gardadi, a World Athletics Championships medalist, add to the international flavor.

Leading the American athletes is Desiree Linden, the 2018 Boston Marathon winner known for her consistent top-five finishes and remarkable record on the Boston course. She's joined by Emma Bates, who made a strong showing last year.

For Linden, competing in the Boston Marathon is a natural choice, eagerly anticipating her 11th run on the iconic course. Her focus on the race reflects her commitment to competing among the world's elite runners.

Women's Elite Field: