Twice Olympic medallist Bashir Abdi is set to make his first marathon appearance of 2025 in Chicago on Sunday (12).
The Belgian, who won silver at the Paris Olympics and bronze at the Tokyo Olympics, told his social media followers on Friday (10):
“It’s been almost a year since my last marathon. It’s time to race in Chicago — to feel, and to enjoy the journey again.”
Back to form at Great North Run
The 36-year-old Abdi missed much of the summer due to a hip injury but returned to action in fine form, finishing second in 60:58 at the Great North Run half marathon in Newcastle, Britain, last month.
The 2022 world bronze medallist was third in Chicago two years ago and will be aiming to contend at the sharp end of the race once again.
The men’s field also includes defending champion John Korir of Kenya, who also won the Boston Marathon earlier this year, as well as Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo, the world record-holder in the half marathon.
Meanwhile, 2024 European half marathon silver medallist Calli Hauger-Thackery is among the elite entries for the women’s race.