DULUTH, Minnesota (June 17) – The defending champions, Dakotah Lindwurm of the USA and Dominic Ondoro of Kenya, are set to defend their respective Elite race titles at the 2023 Grandma’s Marathon today. This highly anticipated event will feature intense competition as both Lindwurm and Ondoro face formidable challenges from their rivals.
For sports enthusiasts eager to follow the action, live streaming coverage of the 2023 Grandma’s Marathon can be accessed on WDIO-TV, the Northland FAN 106.5FM, and the Duluth News Tribune. Read more: How to watch, listen and follow the 2023 Grandma’s Marathon?
Dakotah Lindwurm Targets Historic Three-Peat in Women’s Elite Race
In the women’s elite race, Dakotah Lindwurm enters as the two-time defending champion and aims to achieve a remarkable three-peat. The last time an athlete achieved this feat was Mary Akor from the United States, who secured three consecutive victories from 2007 to 2009.
Notably, Lorraine Moller from New Zealand holds the distinction of being the first to accomplish a three-peat at the Grandma’s Marathon, achieving this impressive feat from 1979 to 1981. For a complete list of all-time winners, Click here.
Lindwurm faces a formidable field this year as she strives for the USD $10,000 prize money. Among her competitors are Gabriella Rooker, Obsie Birru, Michele Lee, and Grace Kahura, who will be determined to prevent their American compatriot from defending her title.
Additionally, keep an eye on debutant Lauren Paquette as she makes her first marathon appearance today. Read more: Lauren Paquette to make marathon debut at 2023 Grandma’s Marathon
Dominic Ondoro Eyes Third Crown in Men’s Elite Race
Meanwhile, Dominic Ondoro of Kenya enters today’s race with confidence, aiming to retain his title in the elite men’s Grandma’s Marathon. The 35-year-old holds the course record of 2:09:06, which he set while claiming his first championship in 2014. With a personal best of 2:08:00, Ondoro could potentially challenge the existing record this year.
His primary competition is expected to come from fellow countryman Thomas Rono Kiplagat, 36, who boasts an impressive personal best time of 2:06:00 and is one of the top entrants in this year’s marathon.
Also, Kenya’s Milton Rotich, the 2021 winner, and Elisha Barno, who achieved four consecutive victories from 2015 to 2018, are among the prominent challengers in the elite men’s race at the 2023 Grandma’s Marathon.
