Hellen Obiri added yet another chapter to her extraordinary career on Sunday, June 8, seizing victory at the Mastercard New York Mini 10K with a powerful finishing kick that left the crowd in awe.
The 35-year-old Kenyan, already a two-time world champion and Olympic medalist, crossed the line in 30:44 just five seconds ahead of American star Weini Kelati, who ran a blistering 30:49 to set a new U.S. road record.
For Obiri, this wasn’t just another win. It was a statement. Coming off triumphs in the Boston and New York City Marathons, she showed that her dominance isn’t confined to 26.2 miles. With this victory, she reaffirmed her versatility adding a prestigious 10K title to her track, cross-country, and marathon credentials.
“I’m very happy to win today,” Obiri said after the race. “The competition was tough, and I’ve been focusing on speed these past two wee just trying to give my best after Boston and the Manchester 10K.”
The race began with a tightly packed group of elite runners setting the tone. Among them were Amanda Vestri, Sharon Lokedi, Grace Loibach, Gotytom Gebreslase, Taylor Roe, and Emma Grace Hurley. Vestri, last year’s top American in the race, helped push the early pace.
But the contest truly came alive in the final stages. Just after the 26-minute mark, Kelati surged to the front, appearing to pull away. Obiri, unfazed, stayed close then unleashed a devastating downhill sprint in the final stretch to seal the win and a $10,000 (Ksh1.2 million) prize.
It was another glittering moment for a woman who seems equally comfortable with medals, records, and rewriting the script on what elite distance runners can achieve.
