Canadian runner Charles Philibert-Thiboutot, a two-time Olympian, has decided to retire after a successful 15-year career in track and road racing. Philibert-Thiboutot, 34, concluded his marathon debut in New York City with a time of two hours 26 minutes 25 seconds, placing 21st in the professional men’s category.
Reflecting on his final race, Philibert-Thiboutot shared that although he started faster than planned, leading the pack in the first half, he began experiencing cramps around the 28-29 kilometer mark. Despite the challenges, his main focus was on finishing the race.
Throughout his final campaign, Philibert-Thiboutot achieved personal best times in various events, both indoors and outdoors. Notable highlights include setting a national record in the 10K Road Running Championships in Ottawa and securing victories in other competitions.
Having made his Olympic debut in 2016 and faced injuries in subsequent seasons, Philibert-Thiboutot did not qualify for the 2021 Tokyo Olympics but made a return at the recent Paris Games. He expressed contentment with his career, stating, “I’m very tired mentally, physically. I’m very happy with my career.”
In the same event, Kenyan runner Hellen Obiri set a new course record in the women’s competition, crossing the finish line in two hours 19 minutes 51 seconds. Benson Kipruto emerged victorious in the men’s race after a closely contested battle with Alexander Mutiso, winning by a narrow margin.
The men’s race witnessed a thrilling finish as Kipruto and Mutiso separated themselves from the chase pack, with Kipruto ultimately clinching the victory. Notably, Eliud Kipchoge, a renowned marathoner, completed his first NYC Marathon, finishing 17th in the race.
Additionally, wheelchair racers Marcel Hug and Susannah Scaroni dominated their respective categories, securing victories in the marathon. Hug, known as the “Silver Bullet,” claimed his seventh NYC Marathon win, while Scaroni defended her title successfully.