Boston Marathon 2024: Stacked women’s lineup of top elite stars announced for April race

ATHLETICS Boston Marathon 2024: Stacked women’s lineup of top elite stars announced for April race

Festus Chuma 21:30 - 10.01.2024

Elite international runners, including former winners and Olympic medalists, set to compete in a historic 2024 Boston Marathon field.

A champion looking to defend her crown against a deep field of challengers sets the stage for the 2024 Boston Marathon, promising to be one of the most competitive and thrilling races in its storied history.

Hellen Obiri, the reigning champion, headlines an exceptional lineup, including former winners, Olympic medalists, and a host of international talents, all vying for glory on the iconic Boston streets.

Obiri, a two-time Olympic silver medalist now residing in Colorado, is set to return to the Boston Marathon with a singular aim - to defend her title.

The 34-year-old, who clinched victory in 2023 with a masterful final-mile sprint, shared her excitement.

“I am excited to return to the 2024 Boston Marathon to try to defend my title,” she said.

“Boston is an historic race and I would like to add my name further to its history on April 15. Winning such an historic marathon with my family waiting at the finish line was an amazing experience.”

The women’s field is not just about one star athlete, but a constellation of them.

A remarkable 19 women, each with personal bests under 2:23:00, will embark on the journey from Hopkinton, eyeing the Open Division crown.

This lineup includes Olympians, Abbott World Marathon Majors winners, and national stars, making it a true celebration of women's endurance running.

Edna Kiplagat, a two-time Boston Marathon winner from Kenya, along with 2022 World Athletics Championships Marathon silver medalist Judith Korir, are among the strong contenders.

From Ethiopia, a trio with lifetime bests under 2:18:00, including 2019 champion Worknesh Degefa, will add to the stiff competition.

Jack Fleming, President and CEO of the Boston Athletic Association, expressed his enthusiasm.

“The Boston Marathon is proud to showcase the world’s best athletes year in and year out on Patriots’ Day,” he said.

“This year’s women’s field is exceptionally fast and showcases many who’ve been podium finishers on the global stage. It’ll make for an exciting race from Hopkinton to Boston, and we look forward to crowning our champions on April 15.”

In addition to the elite African contingent, the American hopes will be pinned on Desiree Linden, the 2018 Boston Marathon winner.

Linden, known for her resilience and tactical prowess, is eager for her 11th appearance on this prestigious course.

“At this point in my career it’s an easy decision to return to the Boston Marathon and make it my top priority race of the spring,” Linden stated.

“I can’t wait to take on the iconic course for an 11th time and have the opportunity to mix it up with some of the best runners in the world.”

Emma Bates, who finished fifth last year in the second-fastest time ever by an American woman at Boston, will join Linden, further strengthening the U.S. challenge.

The 2024 Boston Marathon is not just a showcase of individual talent but also a testament to the global appeal of long-distance running.

Women from 20 countries will compete as part of the Bank of America Professional Athlete Team, underlining the race's international stature.

David Tyrie, chief digital officer and chief marketing officer of Bank of America, emphasized the race's global impact.

“Each year, the Boston Marathon sets the bar higher with an unbelievable level of athletic talent, and its impact on communities around the world,” he remarked.

“The 128th Boston Marathon builds on a rich history and will continue to be an inspiration for all athletes.”

With such a deep and diverse field, the 2024 Boston Marathon promises not just a race, but a narrative of human endeavor, international camaraderie, and the pursuit of excellence.

As thousands of spectators line the route from Hopkinton to Boston, they will witness not just a sporting event, but a celebration of the human spirit, pushing the limits of endurance and determination.

April 15th will indeed be a day to remember, as champions old and new write their stories on the historic Boston pavement.  

Follow Pulse Sports WhatsApp channel for more news.

Tags: