John Korir Joins His Brother in Boston Marathon Glory
In a remarkable display of endurance and family legacy, John Korir of Kenya etched his name into the annals of marathon history on Monday. The streets of Boston bore witness to a momentous occasion as Korir joined his brother, Wesley Korir, in the exclusive club of Boston Marathon champions. This victory not only adds another feather to the Korir family’s cap but also marks a significant milestone in the storied history of the marathon.
Just six months after his triumph in Chicago, John Korir conquered the grueling 26.2-mile course from Hopkinton to Boston’s Copley Square. His unofficial time of 2 hours, 4 minutes, and 44 seconds stands as the second-fastest winning time in the race’s illustrious history. This achievement is a testament to his exceptional talent and determination, qualities that seem to run in the family.
As John crossed the finish line, he was met with a warm embrace from his older brother, Wesley Korir, who himself claimed victory in Boston back in 2012. This moment was not just a personal triumph for John but a historic one for the marathon. While the race has seen victories by a pair of unrelated John Kelleys and two different Robert Cheruiyots, the Korirs are the first brothers—or relatives of any kind—to win the world’s oldest and most prestigious annual marathon.
The race was not without its drama, particularly in the final moments. Conner Mantz of Provo, Utah, found himself in a thrilling three-way sprint to the finish. Despite his best efforts, Mantz finished fourth, narrowly edged out by Alphonce Felix Simbu of Tanzania, who took second place, and Cybrian Kotut of Kenya, who claimed third. The intensity of the competition was palpable, showcasing the high stakes and fierce determination of all the athletes involved.
In a curious twist, John Korir ran the race without his bib visible, only pulling it out of his running tights as he sprinted down Boylston Street. This small detail added an element of intrigue to his victory, as spectators and commentators alike speculated on the reasons behind this unusual choice.
- John Korir’s unofficial time: 2:04:44
- Second-fastest winning time in Boston Marathon history
- First brothers to win the Boston Marathon
- Conner Mantz finishes fourth
- Alphonce Felix Simbu and Cybrian Kotut take second and third
The Boston Marathon, with its rich history and challenging course, continues to be a stage where legends are made. John Korir’s victory is a reminder of the power of perseverance and the enduring spirit of competition. As the marathon world celebrates this historic win, the Korir brothers stand as a symbol of familial pride and athletic excellence.
For those who follow the marathon circuit, this victory is sure to spark conversations and inspire future generations of runners. The Korir family’s legacy is now firmly cemented in the history of the Boston Marathon, and their story will undoubtedly be told for years to come.
Originally Written by: ESPN.com
