Ruth Chepng’etich made history by breaking the women’s marathon world record at the 2024 Chicago Marathon. Her remarkable performance secured her a massive payday and solidified her as one of the greatest marathon runners in the world.
Ruth Chepng’etich Breaks World Record
On October 13, 2024, Ruth Chepng’etich delivered a performance for the ages, clocking an incredible time of 2:09:57. She shaved nearly two minutes off the previous world record of 2:11:53, which was held by Ethiopian marathoner Tigist Assefa. Her win marked her third victory at the Chicago Marathon, but this one was the most special by far.
Chepng’etich’s performance was not just fast; it was dominant. She crossed the finish line a full eight minutes ahead of her closest competitor, Ethiopia’s Sutume Kebede, who finished in 2:17:32. Kenya’s Irine Cheptai rounded out the podium with a time of 2:17:52.
Ruth Chepng’etich’s Earnings After Setting the New Record
Ruth Chepng’etich’s world-record-breaking performance has not only made headlines but has also earned her a substantial paycheck. According to NBC Chicago, the 30-year-old marathoner will take home USD 100,000 (approximately Ksh 12.8 million) for winning the race.
However, Chepng’etich’s earnings don’t stop there. As per the marathon’s prize structure, she is entitled to an additional USD 50,000 for setting a new course record. This brings her total earnings from the event to a whopping Ksh 19.3 million.
Prize Breakdown for the 2024 Chicago Marathon
The Chicago Marathon, part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, offers one of the most lucrative prize pools in the world of distance running. Below is a breakdown of the earnings for top finishers in both the men’s and women’s open division for 2024:
- 1st Place (Men/Women): USD 100,000 (Ksh 12.8 million)
- 2nd Place (Men/Women): USD 75,000 (Ksh 9.6 million)
- 3rd Place (Men/Women): USD 50,000 (Ksh 6.4 million)
Thanks to her record-setting performance, Ruth Chepng’etich is set to earn nearly twice as much as the standard first-place finisher due to her additional course record bonus. This makes her victory at the 2024 Chicago Marathon even more significant financially.
Kenyan Marathoners Dominate in Chicago
Kenya had a remarkable showing at the 2024 Chicago Marathon, with multiple top-three finishes in both the men’s and women’s races. John Korir took the men’s marathon title and will receive USD 100,000 (Ksh 12.8 million). Irine Cheptai, who finished third in the women’s race, will earn USD 50,000 (Ksh 6.4 million).