Chepngetich targets world record in Chicago

Reigning Chicago Marathon champion Ruth Chepngetich hopes to lower the women’s world record when she returns to defend her title in this year’s race to be set for October 8.

Chepngetich clocked 2:14:18 in last year’s victory which was 14 seconds short of the world record mark set by compatriot Brigid Kosgei in 2019.

The 2019 world champion will not be flying the Kenyan flag at this year’s World Championships in Budapest as her eyes are firmly focused on the Chicago Marathon.

“I am planning to defend my title and improve my time. It (world record) will depend on my preparations and if everything goes well like last year, I will appreciate it. There's no better race in the world than in Chicago, especially with the crowds who motivate you to do your best,” said Chepngetich, who recently competed over 10,000m at the Kenyan championships.

The 28-year-old will be seeking her third consecutive titles in the streets of Chicago and will face stiff challenge form the London Marathon champion Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands.

Unlike Chepngetich, Hassan will compete at the Worlds in Budapest before lining up in Chicago six weeks later.

“At the moment, my focus is on the World Championships in Budapest, so my marathon preparation will be very short, but as most people know, I like to be challenged,” said Hassan.

“I will see how my body responds and how my mind handles it. The good thing is that I have the experience from London so I'm looking forward to Chicago, to see what the marathon can teach me this time.”