American Nathan Martin Wins Closest L.A. Marathon Finish Ever

Los Angeles, CA – American Nathan Martin secured a dramatic victory at the 41st Los Angeles Marathon on Monday, March 9, 2026, winning the men’s race by the narrowest margin in the event’s history. The win came shortly after Priscah Cherono of Kenya claimed the overall title in the Marathon Chase.

Dramatic Finish in the Men’s Race

Martin, 36, overtook a fading Michael Kamau of Kenya in the final stretch, winning by a mere one second with a time of 2:11:16.50. Kamau finished with the same time. Marathon officials have hailed the finish as the closest in the L.A. Marathon’s history. Enyew Nigat of Ethiopia finished third with a time of 2:14:22.22.

Cherono Triumphs in Women’s Division

Priscah Cherono, a 45-year-old mother of three from Kenya, was the first to cross the finish line winning the women’s race in 2:25:18.31. Cherono previously represented Kenya in the 5000 meters at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and made a comeback after stepping away from the sport during the coronavirus pandemic, winning the 2025 Marathon Project in Chandler, Arizona.

Other Top Finishers

American Kellyn Taylor, 39, secured second place in the women’s division with a time of 2:27:36:00, whereas Antonina Kwambai of Kenya finished third in 2:28:49.09.

Safety Measures Amidst Hot Weather

The marathon featured a capacity field of over 27,000 runners. Organizers implemented safety changes due to forecasted hot weather, allowing runners to finish at the 18-mile mark and still receive a finisher’s medal if conditions became too challenging. Runners were informed of this option via the marathon’s website.

Elite Women’s Start

The elite women began the race 15 minutes and 45 seconds ahead of the elite men, with the overall first-place finisher receiving a $10,000 bonus.