Elites set for quick times at Edinburgh Marathon

Edinburgh Marathon expecting quick times from Elites

Some of the world's fastest marathon runners will take to the streets of Edinburgh and East Lothian this weekend for the 2016 Edinburgh Marathon.

Exciting elite fields have emerged for both the men and the women as Edinburgh continues to establish itself as one of the world's leading marathons. Athletes from across the globe will descend upon the Scottish capital looking to drop some quick times in this Olympic year.

In the men's field, Peter Wanjiru of Kenya will start as favourite after his victory at 2015 Edinburgh Marathon; he will be looking to improve on his 2:12 personal best . Fellow Kenyan, Boaz Kiprono who also has a best of 2:12 could challenge; Kiprono has had previous success on British soil having stormed to victory at the Bournemouth Marathon last year. American Chris Zablocki should also not be discounted, the 2:15 runner will take to the start line in Edinburgh having already run three marathons this year and looking to improve on his season's best of 2:18.

The fastest entrant the women's elite field is Ukranian Olena Burkovska with a PB of 2:27 but she will face stiff competition from Kenyans Hildah Cheboi and Eddah Jepkosgei. Dunblane-based Hungarian marathon runner Fanni Gyurko could also feature as she aims to go under 2:40.

Abi Beautyman, Edinburgh Marathon Festival Elite Coordinator, looked ahead to what should be an exciting battle at the front of the race: "We're excited to see who will come out on top with some really strong runners in both the men's and women's fields. The course is quick and we're hopeful for some good running conditions which should lend itself to some fast times."

Neil Kilgour, Edinburgh Marathon Festival race director, added: "Scotland is preparing to welcome the world to the this amazing city and we look forward to delivering another outstanding Edinburgh Marathon Festival that the nation will be proud of. We as a team are already proud of the effort put in by all of our EMF 2016 runners as they work hard to prepare for the big day. In our eyes, every EMF runner is elite and we value every runner's contribution to the festival in equal measure. It's great to have another stellar elite field this year, cementing Edinburgh's status as a premier global marathon with genuine world class runners spearheading the race."

Second only to London in terms of size in the UK, the Edinburgh Marathon Festival takes place in Scotland's capital city Edinburgh and continues through East Lothian. There are seven races on offer, guaranteeing there is something for everyone from the seasoned runner to the charity fundraiser and beginners. The fun kicks off on Saturday 28th May at Holyrood Park with a 10K, 5K and two junior races. On Sunday 29th May, the Edinburgh marathon, half marathon and team relay starts from the heart of Edinburgh and continues through East Lothian offering stunning views and an unforgettable running experience.

You can find out more information on the website at www.edinburghmarathon.com