Three-time Toronto Waterfront marathon champion Philemon Rono will be targeting a fourth title when he competes at the Canadian race on October 16.
Popularly known as ‘Police Mdogo’ due to his small stature, the National Police Service officer said that he will be returning ‘home’ for another title, God willing.
“I am going back home. The course and the race, I know them very well,” said Rono.
The 31-year-old, who trains at Kaptagat-based Global Sports Communication alongside marathon greats Eliud Kipchoge, Abel Kirui, Laban Korir, Augustin Choge among others, said his preparations are top-notch ahead of the event.
The ever-smiling Rono first won the title in 2016 when he clocked 2:08:26 and defended it the following year in 2:06:52.
However, he was denied an opportunity to collect a hat-trick in 2018 when Benson Kipruto from Nandi County won the title after timing 2:07:24.
“I will be heading there for a win. I have the course record and I hope to improve it since I have trained well,” he added.
In 2019, Rono reclaimed the title when he managed a course record of 2:05:00.
The marathon will be returning this year after a two-year break due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Rono also competed at the Valencia Marathon (2:05:37) as well as the Seoul Marathon (2:07:03).
The Chelsea fan has also competed twice at the Hamburg Marathon finishing fourth in 2014 and second in 2016.
