With a strong field of athletes, the 128th Boston Marathon promises intense competition and thrilling performances

Elite athletes from across the globe are converging in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, setting the stage for an electrifying 128th Boston Marathon, 2024. This prestigious event will feature former winners and promising new entrants eager to claim victory on the challenging 26.2-mile journey to Copley Square in Boston.

The stakes are high as competitors vie for a slice of the over $1 million in prize money. This year’s lineup includes veterans and newcomers, all prepared to make their mark in marathon history.

Evans Chebet of Kenya, a two-time Boston Marathon winner, is aiming for his third consecutive victory. “I am ready to win three times,” Chebet declared, underscoring his ambition and preparedness for the rigorous race ahead.

Zouhair Talbi, a Moroccan runner who placed second in the recent New York City Half Marathon, is also among the top contenders. After debuting at last year’s Boston Marathon with a fifth-place finish, Talbi is determined to improve. “Winning Boston would be a huge result for me,” he said, highlighting his aspirations for a breakthrough performance.

Swedish runner David Nilsson, despite past injuries, remains optimistic about his potential. “I want to feel like a strong runner again,” Nilsson expressed, signalling his intent to overcome past challenges and achieve a new personal best.

Among the women, last year’s champion Hellen Obiri from Kenya returns, fueled by the success of her recent victories in Boston and New York. “It takes extra hard work to become a champion,” Obiri noted, aware of the intense competition she faces.

Edna Kiplagat, another seasoned athlete from Kenya, continues to inspire with her resilience and experience. At 44, Kiplagat is a testament to enduring athletic prowess, particularly on Boston’s notorious Heartbreak Hill.

In the wheelchair division, reigning champion Marcel Hug of Switzerland is back to defend his title. Hug set a course record last year and faces stiff competition from Team USA’s Paralympians Daniel Romanchuk and Aaron Pike.

Unfortunately, the women’s wheelchair division will miss last year’s champion Susannah Scaroni from the USA due to an injury. Her absence opens the field for other competitors to make their mark.

As the city of Boston braces for this monumental event, fans and athletes alike are gearing up for a marathon that promises not only to test the limits of human endurance and speed but also to inspire with stories of determination and triumph.