Chepkwony, Chepkorir shine as Wambua makes history at 2025 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon
Benard Chepkwony in a past race. Photo/Courtesy.
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The annual event, held on Sunday, October 26, attracted a record of 32,000 participants, including over 200 elite runners, turning the streets of Nairobi into a celebration of athletic excellence and human spirit.
John Wambua clinched the 21km wheelchair race title, expressing gratitude for his training and divine favor.
“I trained very well and was hoping to finish in position two or one, but through God’s grace and hard work, I won,” an emotional Wambua said, adding that his next goal is to compete at the London Marathon
In the men’s full marathon, Bernard Chepkwony stormed to victory in 2:11:01, sealing a remarkable comeback on the Kenyan roads. His consistent pace and determination set him apart from the pack that included Silas Chesang and Donald Kimaru.
“I’ve been training hard and I’m happy to have come here and won. I ensured that when I show up, I take nothing short of victory,” Chepkwony said after crossing the finish line.
Alex Saekwo followed closely in 2:11:26, while Ezekiel Omullo Kemboi secured third place in 2:11:40, later admitting the race was grueling due to the challenging weather along Ngong Road.
“The race wasn’t easy, but I’m proud to finish in the top three. I’ll train harder for next year’s races,” he said.
Debutant Hellen Chepkorir dominated the women’s marathon, clocking 2:27:17to win her first-ever 42km race.
“It was my first time running the marathon, and I’m so happy to win. I prepared well, stayed focused, and followed the pacers — that was my strategy,” Chepkorir said after her triumphant finish.
Naomy Chepkorir finished second in 2:27:37, while Scholastica Jepkemboi completed the podium in 2:29:18.
In the men’s 21km race, Joshua Githuku emerged the winner with a time of 1:02:35, followed by Nahashon Kipsang in 1:03:31 and Gilbert Koririn 1:03:34.
“The race wasn’t easy, but this win motivates me to push harder and aim for international races,” Githuku said, while Kipsang noted the “hilly terrain slowed him down,” promising a stronger performance next time.
In the women’s half marathon, Karen Wainaina made a statement debut, claiming victory in 1:10:40, ahead of Fridah Rerimoi 1:14:23 and Winny Chebet 1:15:21
With over 32,000 runners and 200 elite athletes, the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon continues to cement its place among Africa’s premier road races.
The competition not only celebrates athletic excellence but also supports community empowerment and charitable causes under the theme “Run for a Reason.”
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