The 2025 Boston Marathon promises an exciting blend of redemption stories, debut intrigue, and head-to-head rivalries across both elite fields. On the men’s side, defending champion Sisay Lemma returns after last year’s audacious front-running victory, facing off against 2024 Chicago champ John Korir, two-time Boston winner Evans Chebet, rising Kenyan Daniel Mateiko, and U.S. hopeful Conner Mantz. Other contenders include Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana and Americans Clayton Young and CJ Albertson, each hoping to outlast the pack or capitalize on race-day chaos.

In the women’s race, Hellen Obiri is chasing a rare three-peat in Boston, entering as the clear favorite despite a strong field. She’ll be challenged by past podium finishers Amane Beriso and Sharon Lokedi, 2:16 marathoner Yalemzerf Yehualaw, and rising marathon star Irene Cheptai. The American field is led by Keira D’Amato in her Boston debut, Emma Bates returning to form, and Dakota Popehn riding Olympic momentum. Young talents like Gabi Rooker, Jessica McClain, and Jackie Gaughan round out a promising domestic squad, with veterans Des Linden and Sara Vaughn adding experience to the mix.

Cooler temperatures, slight winds, and the Newton Hills promise another unpredictable Patriot’s Day. Tactics, toughness, and timing will determine who claims the tape on Boylston.

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