Sheila Chepkirui Wins 2026 New York City Marathon as Jess McClain Takes Second

Kenya’s Sheila Chepkirui claimed her second New York City Marathon title on Sunday, November 1, winning the 2026 women’s race in 2:24:36. American Jess McClain finished second in 2:24:42, narrowly ahead of defending champion Hellen Obiri, who completed the podium in 2:24:43.

The race developed into a closely contested battle, with a large leading group remaining together well into the second half. Chepkirui ultimately proved strongest over the closing kilometres, while McClain delivered an outstanding finish to secure the runner-up position.

The early pace was measured, with Viola Cheptoo leading through 10km in 35:45. Obiri, Edna Kiplagat, marathon debutant Weini Kelati and Chepkirui were all close behind, with less than two seconds separating the first 10 runners.

Chepkirui moved to the front by 15km, reaching the checkpoint in 52:58. Cheptoo and Kelati followed closely, while McClain remained comfortably within the leading group.

At 20km, Chepkirui led in 1:10:01, with McClain and Obiri immediately alongside her. The field remained tightly packed approaching halfway, where McClain crossed first in 1:13:52. Fellow Americans Carrie Ellwood, Amanda Vestri and Lauren Hagans occupied the next three positions, with Obiri, Chepkirui and Kelati among those still firmly in contention.

The pace increased during the second half. Chepkirui reached 25km in 1:27:27, narrowly ahead of Kelati and Obiri, before passing 30km in 1:44:02. Eight runners remained separated by less than two seconds at that stage, leaving the podium places wide open.

Obiri edged ahead at 35km in 2:01:15, with Chepkirui virtually level. McClain and Kelati held third and fourth, while six athletes remained within one second of the lead with just over seven kilometres remaining.

By 40km, the race had narrowed to a battle between Chepkirui and Obiri. Both recorded 2:17:39, separated by only four hundredths of a second, while McClain followed just over three seconds behind.

Chepkirui broke clear over the final 2.195km to secure victory, adding another New York title to her record. Behind her, McClain closed strongly to finish second, edging Obiri in a dramatic contest for the remaining podium places.

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