Hounslow’s double Olympic and world champion Mo Farah is hoping to translate his track success onto the streets when he tackles his first marathon in London on Sunday.
Farah, who moved to Hounslow when he was eight as Somalia became embroiled in civil war, is set to make his full debut in the 26.2-mile race this weekend.
His preparations were dealt a blow last month as he collapsed in the New York City half-marathon and became unconscious at the finishing line. But that setback hasn’t dampened the charismatic runner’s spirits ahead of the London test, in fact he is aiming to break Steve Jones's 29-year-old British record.
"My main target is to go after the British record," said the 31-year-old. "It's going to be an incredible race whatever happens because if you look at the field it's something very special."
Farah faces stiff competition in London from a field that includes reigning champion Tsegaye Kebede, world record holder Wilson Kipsang, course record holder Emmanuel Mutai and Olympic and world champion Stephen Kiprotich.
Jones’ record time of two hours, seven minutes and 13 seconds was set in 1985.
