Chebet set to make Boston Marathon return

Two-time champion Evans Chebet will return to defend his title at the 128th edition of Boston Marathon set for April 15.

This year’s race will see a field of 20 men whose personal bests are below 2:10:00 battle for top honours.

Chebet clocked 2:05:54 to win last year’s race and became the first person to successfully defend his title in Boston since Robert Cheruiyot who claimed a hat trick of titles between 2006 and 2008.

The 35-year-old will be making a comeback after withdrawing from the New York City Marathon in November last year.

“Boston has become like a second home to me and running in Boston is always special – returning as reigning champion even more so,” said Chebet. “Even after having run 28 marathons during my career, the chance to race the 29th in Boston and the fans there give me the motivation necessary to prepare to defend my title. I look forward to hitting the streets there this spring and hearing the enthusiastic crowds along the course.”

Chebet has won six of his last seven marathons and will be joined by compatriots; Joshua Belet, Ronald Kotut, Cyprian Kotut, John Korir Albert Korir and Edward Cheserek.

Valencia Marathon champion Sisay Lemma- the fourth fastest marathoner- will lead the Ethiopian field that also has; Shura Kitata, Haftu Teklu and Mohamed Esa.

Last year’s runner-up Gabriel Geay of Tanzania is also in the mix.