This archive report was first published on 1 November 2019.
On November 4, 2018, Mary Keitany of Kenya made history by crossing the finish line first in the women's division of the New York City Marathon in New York.
Now, Keitany, 37, is set to face off against Ethiopian Ruti Aga, 25, in the upcoming New York City women's marathon. Aga has been impressing in recent competitions, and her personal best of 2:18:34 makes her the ninth fastest marathoner in history.
Keitany, who has dominated numerous races, is looking to break Margaret Okayo's 16-year-old course record of 2:22:31. Okayo's record has stood for 16 years, making it the second-oldest CR of the six World Marathon Majors.
Keitany came close to breaking the record last year, finishing with a time of 2:22:48, just 17 seconds shy of Okayo's mark. In 2016, Keitany won her third title by a margin of 3:35.
Another challenge for Keitany is expected from debutant Joyciline Jepkosgei, the world half marathon record holder. If Jepkosgei wins, it will be historic, as no woman debutant has won the NYC race since Tegla Loroupe in 1994.
