Kenyan long-distance runner Edwin Kibet Koech, on February 15, 2025 emerged victorious in the men’s category of the 10th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, solidifying his reputation as one of the elite runners in this prestigious event.
This win marked his second triumph in three years, having previously claimed the title in 2023.
Kibet’s performance in 2025 was remarkable, not only for his finishing time of 2:14:18, but also for the circumstances surrounding his participation. He arrived in Nigeria the evening of Friday, before the race, around 6 p.m., and competed with minimal rest after a long journey.
The 2025 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, a 42-kilometer race, commenced at the National Stadium in Surulere and concluded at Eko Atlantic City in Victoria Island.
Over 37,000 runners participated in both the 42km and 10km races, with the 42km event attracting elite marathoners from around the world.
Kibet outran over a hundred top competitors to secure the victory, finishing with a time of 2:14:16. This performance was slightly slower than his 2023 winning time of 2:14:06.
Kibet’s victory in 2025 was an improvement over his performance in the 2024 edition, where he finished third behind fellow Kenyan Bernard Sang, who won with a time of 2:16:49, and Simon Cheprot, who took second place.
The 2025 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon once again underscored the dominance of East African runners in long-distance running.
Alongside Kibet’s win in the men’s category, Ethiopia’s Guta Meseret Hirpa clinched the women’s title with a time of 2:14:04, further cementing the region’s stronghold over the event.
East African athletes, particularly from Kenya and Ethiopia, have consistently excelled in the marathon. Kenyan runners have won the men’s category in multiple editions.
