Galen Rupp Sets New American Masters Marathon Record in Chicago — image accompanying Marathon Handbook's report. Image accompanying Marathon Handbook’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
Galen Rupp has set a new American masters marathon record in Chicago, finishing 11th in 2:06:55. This surpasses the previous record by 3:07, set by Elkanah Kibet in 2024. The achievement comes five months after Rupp turned 40.
Rupp's time is the fastest he has run in five years, surpassing his previous best of 2:08:15 at the Boston Marathon. His performance also marks a significant improvement from his 2:09:41 finish in Chicago last year. This record places him among the fastest marathoners globally over 40. Read more culture coverage.
Rupp's record-breaking run is his seventh in Chicago, with his fastest time being 2:06:21 in 2018. His latest achievement highlights his resilience and dedication, especially after a challenging period that included hip surgery and a long recovery. Related: Charles Hicks Aims for First American Finish in Chicago Marathon.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
Reader questions
Questions about this report
What should runners know about Galen Rupp Sets New American Masters Marathon Record in Chicago?
Rupp finishes 11th in 2:06:55, breaking the previous record by 3:07. Galen Rupp has set a new American masters marathon record in Chicago, finishing 11th in 2:06:55. This surpasses the previous record by 3:07, set by Elkanah Kibet in 2024. The achievement comes five months after Rupp turned 40.
When did Runner World publish this culture brief?
Runner World published this brief on October 11, 2026. The underlying Marathon Handbook report was dated October 11, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
THE WEEKLY BRIEFING
Start the week a step ahead.
A concise edit of the running stories worth knowing, sent every Monday.