Ugandan long-distance runner Jacob Kiplimo finished fourth at the 2026 Chicago Marathon on Sunday after suffering a hamstring injury during the race. He clocked 2:04:18 while defending the title he won in 2025. Kenya's Amos Kipruto won the men's race in 2:01:09, a personal best for the Kenyan. Ethiopia's Tadese Bikila placed second in 2:02:56 with compatriot Milkesa Mengesha third in 2:03:46. Ugandan Athletics Track and Field said Kiplimo pulled his hamstring shortly after the 30-kilometre mark but continued to the finish. The injury came after an intense contest between Kiplimo and Kipruto in the opening half of the race. Kiplimo increased the pace around 25 kilometres, breaking a leading group of six runners. The pair passed 30 kilometres in 1:25:28 before Kipruto pulled away in the closing stages. Kipruto opened a 12-second lead by 35 kilometres and extended his advantage as Kiplimo dropped back. Kiplimo had won the 2025 Chicago Marathon in 2:02:23, finishing ahead of Kipruto who was second then. Ugandan Athletics Track and Field praised the runner for continuing despite the injury, describing his effort as courageous. The extent of the injury and its effect on Kiplimo's upcoming competitions had not been confirmed in available reports.
Source: SoftPower News
