Khannouchi sets World record in Chicago Marathon

Khannouchi, a Moroccan who is trying to become an American citizen, gets US $ 165,000 for his victory, including a $ 100,000 bonus for the World record.

Khannouchi, also the 1997 winner, trailed Kenyan Moses Tanui by 33 seconds at the 34-kilometre on a course that drew many of the world’s top runners because of its relative ease. But he gradually cut the margin, beating Tanui by 34 seconds.

Little-known David Morris, originally from Alaska who now lives and trains in Japan, finished fourth and set an American record of 2:09:32. His previous best was 2:15:25 in Pittsburgh last year.

In the women’s race, defending champion Joyce Chepchumba (Kenya) edged countrywoman Margaret Okayo, winning in 2:25:59 seconds. Okayo, running her first marathon, finished in 2:26:00.

Khannouchi took the lead at the 1:58:00 mark, passing Tanui as they went by a water station. Khannouchi had a slight lead as they went into a tunnel underneath McCormick place on Chicago’s lakefront, and by the time they emerged, Khannouchi had a commanding lead.

At 2:04:32, with about a 0.4 kilometres left, Khannouchi looked over his shoulder to make sure Tanui wasn’t gaining on him and raced to the finish line.

“I didn’t think about the record,” Khannouchi said. “It was more important to win. I just decided to run very relaxed and not take any chances.”

Khannouchi, 27, set a World debut record of 2:07:10 when he won at Chicago in 1997, and he came close to repeating last year. But hampered by a stress fracture in his heel, he was passed in the final mile by Ondoro Osoro, who broke Khannouchi’s debut mark with 2:06:54.