The California International Marathon 2025’s hype centered around one name – Sara Hall. The 42-year-old marathoner’s consistency and endurance still continue to defy expectations. However, on the day of the race, the spotlight unpredictably shifted to a young newcomer, Molly Born. It was her first marathon, yet she pulled off a feat that no one saw coming.

In a breakout performance that instantly reshaped the US marathon landscape, 26-year-old Molly Born stormed to victory in 2:24:09, making her debut a masterclass in marathoning. And Hall followed just steps behind in 2:24:36, securing second place. Meanwhile, Megan Sailor rounded out the podium in 2:25:16.

For Sara Hall, the runner-up finish was still historic. It was her highest marathon placement since she won the Marathon Project in

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