Hellen Obiri Shares Motivation Behind Ksh2.5 Million New York Half Marathon Win

Kenyan marathon great Hellen Obiri has opened up over how fans played a large part in her New York Half Marathon win on Sunday.

Obiri floored a strong field that included Kenyan compatriots Agnes Ngetich and Sharon Lokedi as well as American Megan Keith to defend her title after clocking 1:06:33.

The two-time Boston Marathon champion crossed the 20km mark while leading and made it to the finish line ahead of Lokedi, who came in second, having managed 1:07:10 as debutant Keith rounded up the podium in 1:07:13.

PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Google News, Stay informed with Latest Sport News

Obiri, who has enjoyed success in New York multiple times, winning the full marathon twice and the half as many times, admitted the supporters a key role on her way to the win.

"For me, New York City has been like home...winning last year with an event record. This is an incredible moment for me. When you’re alone, and people are cheering for you, they made me run so fast," said Obiri, who has had many bruising battles with Lokedi in recent years.

Winning the race earned Obiri $20,000 (Ksh2.5 million) as Lokedi claimed $10,000 (Ksh1.2 million) for finishing second and it was the perfect warm-up for her ahead of the London Marathon.

Obiri will make her debut in London on April 26 and she is up against a strong field that includes former winners Peres Jepchirchir and Siffan Hassan, Tigst Assefa, former marathon record holder, Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei.

With two wins in New York and as many in Boston, Obiri is backing herself to secure her maiden victory in London and winning the New York Half Marathon was part of her preparations.