The 2013 Virgin London Marathon is shaping up to be a thrilling race, with Tsegaye Kebede emerging as the early favorite according to Ladbrokes, a prominent UK bookmaker. Kebede, the 2012 champion, boasts impressive odds of 5/2, reflecting his strong performance and status as a contender to watch. But the race is far from decided, with a field of elite runners poised to challenge for the title.
Patrick Makau, another powerhouse in the marathon world, follows closely behind Kebede with odds of 7/2. This highlights the tight competition anticipated this year. The presence of both Kebede and Makau sets the stage for an exciting head-to-head race, captivating fans and experts alike. Further down the betting board, we see a diverse range of international runners, each with their own strengths and potential to upset the favorites.
Viktor Rothlin represents the top European hope, priced at 12/1, showcasing the global reach and competitiveness of the event. For British fans, Andrew Lemoncello carries the hopes of the nation, although his odds of 100/1 indicate a long shot for victory. This underscores the formidable challenge faced by British runners in this elite competition.
Ladbrokes also offers odds on record-breaking performances. The probability of a new course record, eclipsing Samuel Wanjiru’s 2:05:09 set in 2009, is set at 6/4. A more ambitious prediction, the breaking of Haile Gebrselassie’s world record of 2:03:59 (2008), is considered less likely, with odds of 14/1. These odds reflect the difficulty of achieving these remarkable feats but also the excitement surrounding the possibility.
Expert Insight from Ladbrokes
Alex Donohue of Ladbrokes commented on the race, stating, “Last year’s winner, Kebede, is undoubtedly the one to beat. We anticipate a strong performance from Makau, while Worku has the potential to become a future star. Given the high caliber of the field, we believe there’s a significant chance of a new course record.” He further added, “Unfortunately for Britain, Lemoncello is their best prospect, and the odds suggest a podium finish would be a remarkable achievement.”
2013 Virgin London Marathon: Key Contenders & Odds
| Runner | Odds |
|---|---|
| Tsegaye Kebede | 5/2 |
| Patrick Makau | 7/2 |
| Bazu Worku | 9/2 |
| James Kwambai | 9/2 |
| Abel Kirui | 8/1 |
This comprehensive list details the odds for several other notable participants. The substantial range in odds reflects the competitive nature of the race and the unpredictable nature of marathon running. It will be exciting to see who emerges victorious.
Conclusion: A Race to Watch
The 2013 Virgin London Marathon promises to be a captivating event, with a strong field of competitors and the potential for record-breaking performances. Kebede’s favored status doesn’t guarantee victory, making it a race worth watching for unexpected twists and turns. Whether you’re a seasoned marathon enthusiast or a casual observer, the anticipation is palpable. Be sure to tune in to witness this exciting competition unfold!