Kenyan athletes claimed victory in both the men’s and women’s categories at the 2025 Guadalajara International Marathon, held on Sunday, November 30. The 41st edition of the race saw 7,400 runners take to the streets of Guadalajara, with African athletes sweeping the podiums in both events.

In the men’s race, Sammy Kigen Korir of Kenya triumphed with a time of 2:15:07, leading an all-Kenyan podium. Reuben Narry finished second, followed closely by Erick Leon Ndiema.

Mexico’s José Luis Santana Marín, participating in his first Guadalajara marathon, made an impressive debut, crossing the finish line in 2:17:27 to secure fourth place and claim the title of top national runner.  The Guadalajara native shared that the emotional strength from remembering his late brother, who had introduced him to running, helped him push through the final miles. “After kilometer 35, it gets tough, but I mentally give myself strength, thinking of the people who support me,” he added.

The women’s race was equally dominated by Kenyan talent, with Euliter Jepchirchir Tanui taking first place in 2:38:17. Ethiopian Almaz Negede Fekade followed in second, while Kenyan Sheila Chepkech rounded out the podium.

In a strong showing for Mexico, Isabel Guadalupe Oropeza finished as the top national runner in the women’s category with a time of 2:45:12, securing a fourth-place finish. Oropeza, who won the 2024 marathon, acknowledged that while she didn’t arrive in peak form, the support from the crowds helped her persevere. “I feel tired, very happy and grateful to all the people who cheered us along the route,” she said.

The total prize money for the marathon was 1.87 million pesos (US$102,400), with 200,000 pesos (US$10,950) awarded to the winners of both the men’s and women’s categories.