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At the 2025 Boston Marathon, Sharon Lokedi etches her name into history by not only winning the esteemed race but also setting a new course record. This achievement is especially significant for the 31-year-old Kenyan runner, who faced tough competition from Hellen Obiri, among others, and overcame personal doubts following an earlier ninth-place finish at the 2024 New York Marathon. After a period of reflection and training, Lokedi returned to the marathon circuit with renewed determination and a fresh mindset.
Sharon, who began her partnership with Under Armour in 2019 after graduating from The University of Kansas, has also played a key role in providing feedback on the footwear she uses for training and competition. For this year’s race, she wore an unreleased version of the Under Armour Velociti Elite 3, which contributed to her outstanding performance in Boston.
In an interview following her victory, Sharon discussed the experience of winning the Boston Marathon, her approach to training, and the importance of confidence in competitive environments.
Full Interview With Sharon Lokedi:
Paras: You were able to break the long-standing record of 2:19:59 set by Ethiopia’s Buzunesh Deba. What does this achievement signify for you?
Sharon: It means everything to me. It’s a major milestone in my career and my journey as a runner. When you put in the effort during training, the desire to accomplish something grows stronger. Achieving both the victory and the record instills a deep sense of confidence in me, and it propels my excitement for future challenges. This accomplishment demonstrates that hard work truly pays off and inspires others to pursue their dreams.
Paras: Recording a victory while also breaking a record is remarkable. As your training approaches the elite level, do you foresee any adjustments in your preparation moving forward?
Sharon: Going forward, I intend to stay committed to my existing training routine. My past experiences shape my current performance, and the foundation I’ve built will remain invaluable. I’m aware that the competition in races is tough, thus I will continue working on my recovery and improving my speed. Each race invites the best of the best, and I’m determined to keep pushing my limits to achieve even better results in future events, whether it’s World Championships or the Olympics.
Paras: You’ve spoken about a past lack of confidence in your racing abilities, but it seems your outlook has shifted significantly for this marathon. What factors contributed to this change in mindset?
Sharon: After my performance at the New York Marathon, I decided to take a break to reassess my training. When I returned to prepare for Boston, I focused on gradual improvements. Utilizing workouts that simulate the marathon environment helped me mentally prepare. Throughout the training, I reminded myself of past successes, which fueled my determination. When it came time for the race, despite the pre-race nerves, I was grounded in the belief that I was ready. It was a matter of employing everything I’d practiced and maintaining my focus.
Paras: Competing against Hellen Obiri has become a familiar challenge for you. Last year, she narrowly won against you, but this time you emerged victorious. What does this mean in your journey?
Sharon: Hellen is a fierce competitor, and racing against her always demands my best. Each time we face off, it’s an exhilarating experience. While I’ve had moments where I didn’t win, I never lost faith in my training or my abilities. This victory is a testament to perseverance and growth. Competitions like these push us both to excel. I view her not only as a rival but also as a friend, and together we inspire and elevate one another.
Paras: Having raced alongside Hellen in multiple marathons, how do you perceive the pressure during these events?
Sharon: Competing against Hellen feels more like a motivating challenge rather than pressure. We boost each other’s strength while racing, knowing that our competition will yield a thrilling contest. It’s rewarding to share the journey with her, as it enhances both our performances. Our shared goal improves our overall experience and strengthens our bond as athletes.
Paras: You also wore the Velociti Elite 3 from Under Armour for your winning performance. Can you describe your collaboration with Under Armour and the impact of their footwear on your career?
Sharon: I began my association with Under Armour in 2019, and they have been incredibly supportive throughout my journey as a professional runner. They value athlete feedback, which is crucial for producing effective footwear. Being involved in the development of the Velociti Elite shoes means a lot to me. Beyond footwear, the support extends to recovery needs and overall well-being—it’s a partnership that I truly appreciate. My success in marathons, including the New York City Marathon and the Olympics, has been bolstered by the foundation of trust and collaboration I have built with Under Armour.
Source
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