Kenyan Runners Dominate Tokyo Marathon Qualifiers with Six Podiums

TOKYO, Japan — Kenya's long-distance running supremacy was on full display at the Tokyo Marathon qualifying event over the weekend, with Kenyan athletes claiming six of the top ten finishes in both the men's and women's races.

In the men's event, Kipchoge Rono of Rift Valley Athletics Club crossed the line in 2:04:18 — the second fastest marathon time recorded in Tokyo's history — while Faith Chepkoech set a new women's course record of 2:16:42, shattering the previous mark by over two minutes.

Olympic Qualification Boost

The performances all but guarantee Kenya a full quota of marathon runners at next year's World Athletics Championships, and provide a strong foundation heading into the Paris 2028 Olympic cycle.

"The depth of talent we have in Kenya right now is extraordinary. These young athletes are running times that would have seemed impossible a decade ago."

— Paul Tergat, Athletics Kenya President

Athletics Kenya confirmed that selection for the World Championships marathon squad will be finalised following the Nairobi International Marathon in June.