Jacob Kiplimo Sets National Record in London Marathon Debut

Jacob Kiplimo impresses in his marathon debut at the 2025 London Marathon, finishing second with a national record of 2:03:37. Ethiopia’s Tigist Assefa breaks the women’s world record in the same race. The event showcases a strong performance from elite athletes in both men’s and women’s fields.

In a stunning display of talent, Jacob Kiplimo of Uganda made his marathon debut at the 2025 London Marathon, securing a second-place finish with a remarkable time of 2:03:37. This performance not only marked a personal best for Kiplimo but also set a new Ugandan national record. Transitioning from half-marathons, he showcased his endurance and strategic prowess in this full 42-kilometer race.

Competing in a field filled with elite runners, the 23-year-old Kiplimo was narrowly outpaced by Kenya’s Sebastian Sawe, who clinched the title with a time of 2:02:27. The podium was completed by Alex Mutiso of Kenya, finishing third at 2:04:20. Kiplimo’s impressive debut has drawn accolades from the Uganda Athletics Federation, which hailed the run as a “phenomenal marathon debut,” acknowledging its importance for the country’s athletic scene.

In contrast, the women’s race saw Ethiopia’s Tigist Assefa capture headlines by shattering the women-only world record with a time of 2:15:50. Assefa dominated the race, finishing ahead of Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei (2:18:43) and the Netherlands’ Olympic champion Sifan Hassan (2:18:59). Nonetheless, Kiplimo’s outstanding performance highlighted Uganda’s strength in long-distance running and hinted at an exciting future ahead.

Here are the top results for the Men’s Elite:
1. Sebastian Sawe (KEN) – 2:02:27
2. Jacob Kiplimo (UGA) – 2:03:37
3. Alexander Mutiso (KEN) – 2:04:20
4. Abdi Nageeye (NED) – 2:04:20
5. Tamirat Tola (ETH) – 2:04:42
6. Eliud Kipchoge (KEN) – 2:05:25
7. Hillary Kipkoech (KEN) – 2:06:05
8. Amanal Petros (GER) – 2:06:30
9. Mahamed Mahamed (GBR) – 2:08:52
10. Milkesa Mengesha (ETH) – 2:09:01
11. Alex Yee (GBR) – 2:11:08 (Olympic triathlon champion).

This marathon proved not only exhilarating but also significant. Kiplimo’s record-setting time demonstrates his capabilities and positions him among the elite in distance running as he forges his path in this new venture. The mixture of young talent and seasoned athletes made for a thrilling race that will undoubtedly leave an impact on future competitions.

Jacob Kiplimo’s debut at the London Marathon was nothing short of extraordinary, as he set a national record and established himself firmly among top distance runners. His performance signifies a promising future for Ugandan athletics, matched only by the historic achievement of Tigist Assefa in the women’s race. Both events captured the essence of competition in the marathon world today.

Original Source: softpower.ug