NAIROBI, Dec. 9 (Xinhua) -- Reigning champion Lawrence Cherono of Kenya will be eyeing to improve the course record when he puts his title on the line at the Honolulu marathon in the United States.
Cherono, however, must brace himself for the biggest challenge as he will come up against world record-holder Dennis Kimetto, who is on the comeback trail from injury.
Kimetto started the Chicago Marathon in October but injury forced him out after just 20 kilometers.
Kimetto, who set the world record in 2014, has struggled for form ever since and will be hoping his return to US soil in less than three months will bore fruits.
"I have faith and strongly believe I am still strong to compete at the marathon distance. I have poor performance in the last three season, but the worst nightmare is behind me. I feel strong and ready to challenge on the higher league," said Kimetto.
Cherono, who set the course record last year when he cut the tape in 2:09.39, lowering the previous record of 2:11.12 that was set in 2004 by James Muindi, remained optimistic he will retain his title even in faster time.
The 29 year-old also holds the Amsterdam Marathon course record of 2:05.09 and has also vowed to lower it this year.
"The weather last year, wasn't conducive to me because it was so cold but am heading there this time to attack that time," said Cherono.
"My training has been well and I will ensure that I defend my title. I know it will not be easy but am hoping for better results," added Cherono.
Other top names include former champion Wilson Chebet and Festus Talam, who won the Eindhoven Marathon in October in a 2:06:13 personal best (PB).
There is also Titus Ekiru, who surprised many when he broke the course record at Seville Marathon, on his debut with a personal best of 2:07.43.
Vincent Yator comes with a personal best of 2:13.04 from 2013 in Amsterdam and will be his first time to race in Honolulu.
In the women's race, last year's winner Brigid Kosgei faces 2014 and 2015 winner Joyce Chepkirui.
Both will be eyeing a good performance to boost their hopes of making Kenya team to the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast in April.
"I have struggled this year, but hopefully in Honolulu, things will be different and I will excel," said Chepkirui.
