**Boston Marathon 2024:** Defending Champions Face Stiff Competition! Who Will Claim Victory?

Boston, Massachusetts – Athletes from all over the globe have converged in Hopkinton to participate in the 128th Boston Marathon. The prestigious race covers a distance of 26.2 miles, culminating in the historic city of Boston. Last year’s women’s champion, Hellen Obiri, returns to defend her title against a competitive field, including past winners like Edna Kiplagat and Emma Bates, as well as the iconic Des Linden. In the men’s division, Evans Chebet aims to secure his third consecutive victory in the Boston Marathon.

The participants aren’t just racing for glory but also for a significant share of the prize money, totaling over $1 million. The event boasts a mix of seasoned champions and ambitious newcomers vying for the crown by completing the challenging course from Hopkinton to Copley Square.

Marcel Hug, a dominant force in the men’s wheelchair division, seeks to maintain his winning streak after setting a course record last year. American Daniel Romanchuk, a previous Boston Marathon winner, is hot on Hug’s heels in the competition. Unfortunately, the defending women’s wheelchair champion, Susannah Scaroni, had to withdraw due to a shoulder injury, paving the way for new contenders to showcase their skills.

The race also features inspiring stories of perseverance and determination, such as Zouhair Talbi making his marathon debut in Boston after a strong performance in New York. Athletes like David Nilsson and Yemane Haileselassie bring their unique backgrounds and experiences to the marathon, each aiming for personal victories on the renowned course.

In the women’s division, the competition is fierce as Hellen Obiri, Edna Kiplagat, Emma Bates, and Des Linden prepare to battle it out for the top spot. Each athlete brings a different set of skills and motivations to the race, adding to the excitement and unpredictability of the event.

As the athletes gear up for the challenging course ahead, the stage is set for a thrilling and memorable 128th Boston Marathon. With historic moments and impressive performances expected, spectators and fans eagerly await the crowning of the 2024 champions in both the open and wheelchair divisions.