CAROLINEJELIMOQUEEN OF THE RIFT

Elite Kenyan Long-Distance Runner

Hailing from the thin air of Rift Valley, Caroline Jelimo is a force in global road racing, specializing in the 10k, Half-Marathon, and the Full Marathon. By training on the relentless red-clay trails of the Rift Valley, she has engineered an elite aerobic engine capable of withstanding the world's most grueling 42km courses. Known for her metronomic rhythm and tactical patience, Caroline is transitioning from a national standout to a major-marathon contender. She embodies the grit, legacy, and boundless endurance of Kenya’s next generation of distance royalty.

Iten
Training Base
Kenya
National Team
10,000m
Signature Event
Race Performances

Race Records

Personal bests and competitive achievements across all distances

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20 July 2025
10k

Mozzart Bet Rediscover Nandi 10KM

31:17
Finish Time
Distance
10K
Venue
Kapsabet
27 April 2025
Marathon

Eldoret City Marathon

2:31:26
Finish Time
Distance
42K
Venue
Eldoret
8 November 2024
Half Marathon

Tophill Hospital Half Marathon

1:12:57
Finish Time
Distance
21K
Venue
Kericho

Mastering the Roads from 10k to the Marathon

About Caroline Jelimo

CJ

Built for the Long Road

Hailing from the thin air of Riftw Valley, Kenya, Caroline Jelimo is a testament to the endurance of the Rift Valley. While many specialize early, Caroline’s journey has been one of gradual conquest. From dominating local 10k road races to her breakthrough 67-minute half marathon, she has transitioned into the 42.195km distance with the poise of a veteran. Her training is a relentless pursuit of the "Marathon State"—a balance of physical toughness and the mental silence required to conquer the final 10 kilometers of a world-major race.

With a marathon personal best of 2:21:42, Caroline is no longer just a "rising star"—she is a calculated force on the World Marathon Majors circuit. Whether it's the tactical maneuvering of a 10k or the grueling attrition of a 42k, her strategy remains the same: relentless rhythm and an unbreakable spirit.

🏁

Marathon Engine

A 2:21:42 personal best, showcasing elite aerobic capacity and fueling efficiency.

🥈

Half-Marathon Speed

Clocked a blistering 1:07:15, proving her ability to maintain high intensity over 21k.

10k Foundation

Utilizes 31-minute 10k speed to dominate tactical finishes in long-distance events.

🏔️

Altitude Hardened

Lifetime of training at 2,400m in Iten, yielding a natural biological advantage.

⚙️

Mechanical Efficiency

Renowned for a "quiet" upper body and a mid-foot strike that minimizes impact over 42k.

🌍

Global Competitor

Top-tier finishes in London, Berlin, and Valencia road circuits.

The Marathon Build

  • 180-200km weekly volume in peak marathon prep
  • 35km "Monster" long runs on the Iten-Eldoret road
  • Progressive tempo runs starting at 3:15/km pace
  • High-protein recovery fueled by traditional Mursik
  • Mental visualization for the "Wall" at 35km
  • Bi-weekly physio and mobility for injury prevention
  • Specific 10k speedwork to maintain leg turnover

Career Personal Bests

Marathon (42.2k)2:21:42
Half Marathon (21.1k)1:07:15
10,000m / 10k Road30:41 / 31:02
Training BaseIten, Kenya

Race Strategy

Negative SplitsUphill SpecialistMetronomic PacingCalm Under HeatAggressive Surging
"

The 10k is a sprint, the half is a test, but the marathon is a conversation with your soul. In Iten, we don't run to escape our limits—we run to find where they begin. Every kilometer is a step closer to the legacy of those who came before me.

– Caroline Jelimo

"

Get In Touch

Contact Caroline Jelimo

For sponsorship opportunities, media interviews, speaking engagements, brand collaborations, race invitations, or partnerships supporting women's athletics in Kenya.

Location & Timezone

  • Training Camp: Iten, Elgeyo-Marakwet
  • East Africa Time (GMT+3)

Best Contact Times

  • Weekdays: 10 AM - 4 PM EAT
  • Avoid: Training hours (5-8 AM & 4-7 PM)

Response Time: Caroline responds personally to all inquiries within 24-48 hours. During competition season or high-altitude training blocks, responses may take slightly longer. WhatsApp messages are checked during recovery periods and receive priority responses.