‘Strongest-ever field’ set to roll

New Delhi: A mouth watering feast of top class long distance running is all set to unfold when the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon gets rolling in the capital on Sunday .

Two of the best distance runners in the world -defending champion Edwin Kipyego and the world's fastest man Geoffrey Kipsang -are among the favourites in the men's field which is being touted as the one of the best ever.

With the event being held in December for the first time instead of October, the relatively cooler weather is expected to lead to better timings. Both Kipgeyo -who wants to set a personal best timing -and Kipsang have said that the competition will be one of the toughest ever.

They have good reason to to worry .

Dennis Kimetto, the world record holder over 25 kms, in-form Wilson Kiprop, who has won half marathons in Lisbon and Rome this year, young Ethiopian Atsedu Tsegay, who has a personal best of 58.47 and Kenya’s Sammy Kitwara have the ability to spring a surprise or two.

Among the women, defending champion Wude Ayalew of Ethiopia can expect tough competition from compatriot Meseret Hailu, who won the world title last year.

Lucy Kabuu of Kenya, who won here in 2011, is in good form this time around and is the fastest woman over 21k this season.

Kenya’s Florence Kipla-gat, the winner of the 2013 Berlin Marathon, Gladys Cherono, who was the runner-up in the 10,000m event at the 2013 world championships and two-time world cross country champion Emily Chebet will also fancy their chances.