Obiri Wins Mastercard New York Mini 10-K

Kenya’s Hellen Obiri added another prestigious title to her growing list of accomplishments by claiming victory at the Mastercard New York Mini 10-K on Sunday, June 8.

The two-time world champion and Olympic medalist surged to the win in a dramatic late-race battle, clocking 30:44 to edge out USA’s Weini Kelati, who set a new U.S road record with 30:49.

Obiri, 35, who has already conquered both the Boston and New York City Marathons, demonstrated her exceptional versatility once again.

Obiri who has won world titles in indoor track, outdoor track, and cross country, she overcame a loaded elite field and a strong challenge from Kelati to clinch the win and a $10,000 (Ksh1.2 million) prize.

“First of all, I am so happy to win this race because the elite field was strong.

"Also, coming after the Boston Marathon and Manchester 10K, I felt like; let me try to give my best. For the last two weeks, I have been working on my speed,” Obiri told reporters after the race.

Obiri stayed comfortably in the lead pack of eight runners early in the race, which included Amanda Vestri, Sharon Lokedi, Grace Loibach, Gotytom Gebreslase, Taylor Roe, and Emma Grace Hurley. Vestri, the top American finisher at the event last year, helped set the early tempo.

As the race progressed, Kelati and Obiri began to pull away from the field. Kelati made a move just past the 26-minute mark, but Obiri stayed on her shoulder before unleashing a powerful downhill surge in the final stretch.

“She is a tough runner,” Kelati admitted. “I was like, no matter what, I have to follow her. I know she has a great finish. I just had to push myself today.”

Ethiopia’s Gebreslase finished third in 30:54, while Roe came in fourth at 30:58. Obiri’s victory further cements her legacy as one of the most dominant and adaptable distance runners of her generation.