Kenya’s Sharon Lokedi is bracing for what could be the toughest race of her career as she prepares to face a stacked women’s field at the 2025 Boston Marathon on Monday, April 21.
With defending champion Hellen Obiri going for a rare third consecutive title, Lokedi knows the margin for error will be razor-thin.
Defending champion Hellen Obiri is aiming for a historic three-peat, a feat last achieved by Ethiopia’s Fatuma Roba (1997-1999). But Obiri faces stiff competition from veterans Edna Kiplagat, Sharon Cherop, and Ethiopian stars Amane Beriso and Yalemzerf Yehualaw.
Lokedi, who finished second in 2024, acknowledges the heightened competition.
“To be honest, this year’s field is a very tough one with very good quality competitors all round,” she told Telecomasia.net.
“There are many women on the field with good times. But the plan is to be patient and keep with the leading group for as long as possible and be very competitive.”
Lokedi admits she must perfect her timing this time.
“The best tactic is to be aware of when to make a move,” she said.
Her rivalry with Obiri has become one of the most exciting in women’s marathon running. The two have battled three times in a year: 2024 New York, Boston Marathon, and the Paris 2024 Olympics. Each duel has pushed Lokedi to new heights.
“I really like competing against her because she puts the hammer down, and that’s what I like,” Lokedi said.
“She brings the best out of me and is a motivation to keep working.”
Based in the U.S. and training in Arizona, Lokedi has had to adapt to winter conditions while preparing for Boston. Despite the hurdles, she remains confident in her preparation.
“I believe I have prepared well on my end despite training through winter. I still managed to put in some good work and get the best out of myself on race day,” she said.
With her 2022 New York Marathon victory proving her championship pedigree, Lokedi is no stranger to high-pressure races.