Emma Grace Hurley Sets American Marathon Debut Record in Chicago

Emma Grace Hurley ran the Chicago Marathon in 2:20:47, finishing seventh overall and first among American runners.

The 28-year-old, who lives and trains in Indianapolis, set a record for the fastest marathon debut by an American woman.

Her time was nearly a minute and a half faster than the previous mark, set by Fiona O’Keeffe in 2024.

Hurley had built a strong reputation in shorter races, including setting an American 8K record and running a personal best in the half marathon.

She said her goal in Chicago was to finish in the top 10 and learn from her first marathon.

The result strengthens her standing as a potential contender for the 2028 Olympics.

She plans to focus on shorter races in the spring before running another marathon in the fall, possibly in Chicago or New York City.