Nathan Martin, Cross Country Coach From Jackson, Miss, Wins LA Marathon in Stunning Finish

The 41st ASICS Los Angeles Marathon delivered Hollywood-level drama on Sunday, March 8, 2026, as American runner Nathan Martin claimed the men's elite division in the closest finish in the race's history, while Kenya's Priscah Cherono dominated the women's race from start to finish.

In the men's division, the 36-year-old Martin, a high school cross-country coach from Jackson, Michigan, staged an incredible late surge on Santa Monica Boulevard near the Century City finish line. Kenyan Michael Kimani Kamau had led for much of the closing miles and appeared poised for victory, but Martin closed the gap dramatically in the final strides. As Kamau lunged desperately toward the line-collapsing just short-Martin edged ahead to win by a razor-thin margin.

Official and unofficial times varied slightly across reports due to photo-finish timing, but Martin crossed in 2:11:16.50 to 2:11:18, with Kamau recorded at the same time or just 0.01 to 0.18 seconds behind-marking the narrowest margin ever in the event's 41 years.

Ethiopia's Enyew Nigat took third in approximately 2:14:22 to 2:14:23. Martin's triumph made him the second consecutive American men's winner, following Matthew Richtman in 2025, signaling a strong U.S. resurgence in the prestigious race.

On the women's side, Priscah Cherono of Kenya led wire-to-wire from Mile 1 through the full 26.2 miles, securing a commanding victory. The 45-year-old finished in an unofficial time of 2:25:18.31 to 2:25:20-just one second shy of her personal best-and claimed an additional $10,000 bonus as the first overall finisher (women's elite start was 15 minutes ahead). American Kellyn Taylor placed second in 2:27:37, with Kenya's Antonina Kwambai third in 2:28:49.

The day's excitement extended beyond the elites, though the event also drew attention for heat-related challenges and decisions around partial finishes earlier in the race. Martin's come-from-behind heroics and Cherono's dominant performance capped a memorable edition of the LA Marathon, celebrated for its inspiring stories and competitive spirit.

Video of the finish: https://x.com/das_187/status/2030678500798283847?s=20