Kenya’s John Korir etched his name into the Boston Marathon history books on Monday, winning the prestigious race in a lightning-fast 2:04:45 – the second-fastest winning time in the event’s history.
His victory comes just six months after clinching the Chicago Marathon, confirming his place among the world’s top long-distance runners.
What makes Korir’s win even more special is the family legacy he extends. John follows in the footsteps of his older brother, Wesley Korir, who won Boston in 2012. The Korirs now stand as the first siblings ever to both win the Boston Marathon, a feat unmatched in the race’s 128-year legacy.
“I had promised [Wesley] that I was going to win,” John told ESPN2, smiling after embracing his brother at the finish line on Boylston Street.
Korir made his decisive move around Mile 20, pulling away from a tight lead pack and holding firm through the final miles. His bold strategy paid off as he crossed the finish line solo, bib in hand after pulling it from his running tights in the final sprint.
Tanzania’s Alphonce Felix Simbu finished second, while Kenya’s Cybrian Kotut took third.
Team USA’s Conner Mantz, who ran in the lead group for much of the race, secured fourth with an impressive 2:05:08 – the best finish by an American man since 2018.
Defending champion Sisay Lemma of Ethiopia dropped out midway.
Korir’s win marks a new era for the famed Boston race — and the start of a family legacy unlike any other.
