The USA Marathon Championships took place in Sacramento as part of the prestigious California International Marathon, one of the most celebrated long-distance races in the United States. The event featured elite American distance runners competing for the national title, with the winners earning not only the coveted championship but also a chance to represent the U.S. on the international stage.
In the men’s race, Futsum Zienasellassie triumphed with a remarkable time of 2:09:29, capturing the national title in a fiercely contested event. Zienasellassie, known for his consistent performances in marathons and his impeccable endurance, demonstrated his impressive preparation for this key competition. His victory further solidifies his reputation as one of the country’s top marathoners. The race was intense, with a highly competitive field of runners pushing each other to their limits, but Zienasellassie’s performance stood out as a testament to his dedication and training.
On the women’s side, Molly Born emerged as the national champion with a time of 2:24:09, claiming the women’s crown in a race that highlighted the strength and determination of American female marathon runners. Born, who has been making a name for herself in the marathon world, executed a controlled and strategic race, pacing herself perfectly to secure a well-deserved victory. Her performance not only earned her the national title but also showcased the growing depth of talent in U.S. women’s marathon running.
The California International Marathon, which hosted this year’s USA Marathon Championships, is known for its fast, yet challenging course. It has become a staple event on the U.S. road racing calendar and is often considered one of the best marathons for producing fast times. This marathon is known for drawing some of the country’s top runners, making the championships an exciting and highly anticipated event each year. For the athletes, the race represents an opportunity to prove their mettle on a competitive stage, while also serving as an important step toward international competition.
The USA Marathon Championships are organized by USA Track & Field in collaboration with the Sacramento Running Association. Together, they ensure that the event serves as a premier showcase for U.S. marathon talent, offering a platform for athletes to demonstrate their endurance and commitment to the sport. The race is not only a national championship but also a critical point in the long-distance running calendar, attracting elite runners and running enthusiasts from across the country.
Both Zienasellassie and Born’s victories highlight the intense preparation and discipline required to reach the top levels of marathon racing. Their performances are the result of years of dedicated training, fine-tuned strategies, and the drive to excel in the most grueling race distances. As national champions, they now turn their sights toward upcoming international competitions, where they will represent the United States in the global arena.
The USA Marathon Championships also serve as a key indicator of the strength of American distance running. The results of this race reflect the depth of talent in the country, with both experienced marathoners and up-and-coming stars continually pushing the boundaries of performance. The event not only recognizes the champions of the day but also contributes to the growth and development of the sport across the U.S.
For spectators, the USA Marathon Championships offer a thrilling experience, with fans able to witness some of the best runners in the world as they compete in one of the most prestigious events on the marathon calendar. The excitement and energy of the race, combined with the high stakes, make it a highlight of the long-distance running season. As the event continues to evolve and grow in prominence, it promises to remain a key fixture in the running world for years to come.
With the conclusion of the 2025 USA Marathon Championships, both Futsum Zienasellassie and Molly Born have firmly established themselves as the top marathoners in the U.S., and their victories will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of American distance runners. As the running community looks ahead, all eyes will be on the international stage, where both athletes will aim to build on their national success and take their talents to the global competition.