Stella Chesang vs Marathon titans: Can she shock the world in London?

Can Stella Chesang pull off an upset in London? Image source: Imago

Stella Chesang vs Marathon titans: Can she shock the world in London?

Abigael Wafula 08:16 - 10.02.2025

Stella Chesang faces a tough challenge against marathon giants in London—can she pull off a stunning upset?

The 2025 TCS London Marathon, scheduled for April 27, promises an electrifying showdown in the women's elite field with Uganda’s Stella Chesang being among the headliners of the strong field.

The marathon sensation has been steadily rising to glory and she might just surprise the masses when she toes the line for the London marathon.

Last year, Chesang had a very busy season but the good thing is that yielded great results and going into the London Marathon, she will also be viewed as a title contender.

She is ranked seventh in the field with a personal best time of 2:18:26 and one this is for sure; these times are likely to change once she crosses the finish line.

Last season, her notable performances were at the Paris Olympic Games where she finished eighth in the marathon and the Valencia Marathon where she finished second.

The marathon in Paris was her second following her debut at the 2023 Haspa Marathon in Hamburg where she rounded up the podium. With such notable performances, she is certainly one to watch when the race begins.

However, she faces a stern test from the defending champion Peres Jepchirchir, world record holder Ruth Chepngetich, and Olympic gold medallist Sifan Hassan.

Chesang’s participation in the London Marathon marks a significant step in her career, as she challenges some of the world's most accomplished marathoners.

The defending London Marathon champion, Jepchirchir has consistently demonstrated her prowess in major marathons. Her experience and tactical acumen make her a formidable contender and she will definitely be looking to defend her title.

Holding the women's marathon world record with a time of 2:09:56, Chepng’etich aims to further lower her record in London.

Sifan Hassan, a former London Marathon champion is a versatile athlete and her range across distances and recent successes make her a key competitor in this race.

Chesang has yet to compete in the streets of London meaning she has no tangible knowledge about the course but following her previous performances, she has showcased her quick adaptation to new surfaces.

While she faces stiff competition from seasoned champions, her rising trajectory and determination position her as a potential dark horse in the race. As D-day approaches, Chesang could indeed defy the odds and make a remarkable impact on race day.

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