The Sydney Marathon will feature reigning world champions Alphonce Felix Simbu and Peres Jepchirchir. Simbu, from Tanzania, leads the men's field, while Jepchirchir, from Kenya, leads the women's.

The race, now in its second year as an Abbott World Marathon Major, has attracted a deep group of elite runners. Nineteen men have personal bests under the previous course record, raising the possibility of a new men's record. Read more culture coverage.

Peres Jepchirchir, with a personal best of 2:14:43, is the fastest in the women's field. Five women have personal bests under the previous women's course record, suggesting a potential new record. Related: Comrades Marathon Expands Field to 28,000 for 100th Anniversary.

This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Canadian Running. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.