Loice Chemnung Will Compete in Chicago Marathon

The 29-year-old athlete returns to Chicago this October after her debut fourth-place finish in 2025.

Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Running

Loice Chemnung Will Compete in Chicago Marathon

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Loice Chemnung is set to race in the Chicago Marathon this October as she pursues her first career marathon victory. The 29-year-old athlete returns to the city where she ran a 2:18:24 marathon in her 2025 debut.

Why it matters

Chemnung seeks to build on a strong 2026 season that saw her finish second at the Boston Marathon and set a course record at the Barcelona Half Marathon.

Chemnung enters the race with a 2026 Boston Marathon time of 2:19:35 and a 10,000m national title time of 31:46.90. She also recently clocked a 30:52 finish at the Port Gentil 10km.

The players

Loice Chemnung

She is a 29-year-old Kenyan long-distance runner known for her competitive performances in international marathons and road racing.

The details

Chemnung has demonstrated versatility throughout the year, ranging from pacing duties at the Osaka Women's Marathon to winning the Athletics Kenya National Championships. She is now focused on the 42km course in Chicago to add a major marathon victory to her resume.

January 2026: Chemnung served as a pacemaker in Osaka.
April 20, 2026: Chemnung finished second at the Boston Marathon.
June 28, 2026: Chemnung won the Port Gentil 10km.
October 2026: Chemnung competes in the Chicago Marathon.

Season Trajectory

Chemnung's performance in Chicago follows her successful second-place finish at the 2026 Boston Marathon. This race serves as a critical opportunity for her to translate her recent 10km and half-marathon success into a major win on the international stage.

Chemnung's entry significantly impacts the field for the 42km race as she looks to improve upon her 2:18:24 personal best at the course. Her ability to maintain high speeds, evidenced by her 1:04:01 half-marathon record, makes her a notable contender for top-tier placement.

The takeaway

Chemnung represents an emerging talent transitioning from specialized pacing and shorter distances to consistent marathon podium contention. Her progression reflects a tactical shift toward high-stakes championship racing.