Wesley Korir
Kenyan Long-Distance Runner
Wesley Korir, born and raised in Ketale, Kenya, grew up running the dirt roads of his homeland with a deep desire to one day help transform the poverty he witnessed around him. His talent and determination earned him a scholarship to the University of Louisville, where he became a standout collegiate runner and multiple time all American.
Soon after graduation, Wesley captured international attention by winning the 2009 Los Angeles Marathon, and successfully defending his title in 2010. He went on to make history by winning the prestigious Boston Marathon in 2012. In 2016, Wesley represented Kenya in the Olympic Marathon in Rio, Brazil.
Beyond his accomplishments as an elite runner, Wesley is a man of faith and integrity, dedicated to using his platform for greater impact. In 2013, answering God’s call to serve, he was elected to Kenya’s parliament as an independent candidate. He also founded the Kenyan Kids Foundation, which works to improve access to education and healthcare in his community. The organization runs the Transcend Talent Academy, which funds secondary education for hundreds of student-athletes. One of their alumni, Dorcus Ewoi won a Silver Medal at the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo last month.
Wesley's younger brother John Korir is the defending Chicago Marathon Champion, and also won the 2025 Boston Marathon in April. With that achievement, Wesley and John became the first pair of siblings to win the Boston Marathon.
