Chilambe Katuta Becomes First Zambian Male to Earn Abbott Six Star Medal in Boston

BEFORE Monday’s 130th Boston Marathon, only one Zambian had ever received the Abbott World Marathon Majors Six Star finisher’s medal: Mayamba Mwanawasa of the Lusaka Fitness Squad.

That changed on April 20, 2026, when Chilambe Katuta made history as the first Zambian male to complete all six majors — Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York — earning his sixth star in Boston. He completed the series in 1 year and 6 months.

“I’ve been chasing this moment since 2020, starting with the New York City Marathon. But due to COVID-19, the race was cancelled. I had to wait until 2024 to run New York. After a year and six months, thousands of training kilometers, and five stars already earned, my Six Star journey ended this past Monday,” Katuta said.

“I’m proud to join the world’s most dedicated runners — those who line up in Hopkinton fully aware of what Boston demands. Each step carried me through the crowds, the challenge, and the history woven into this course. Then, on Boylston Street, emotion overwhelmed me as the Six Star Medal was placed around my neck. That moment captured every kilometer, every race, and every sacrifice it took to get here.”

Katuta credited his support system for the achievement: “I would like to thank God for making this happen, my running buddies at Lusaka Fitness Squad, my co-workers and my employer for their support and encouragement, and, of course, my family — they’re my #1 cheerleaders.”