According to Brett Larner, the Honolulu Marathon actually is considered very prestigious among Japanese runners. He said, "For a long time, if you were an amateur that wanted to do one marathon in your life, this is the one to do. It's got a reputation and legacy, history in Japan. Some people come every year and this is the one marathon they do every year."

The 2:25:44 marathoner has been training in Portugal to get used to the heat and humidity of Hawaii.

Gilbert Chepkwony defends his title against 2:04:48-man Yamane Adhane. Commonwealth Games 10,000 champ Joyce Chepkirui is the favorite for the women despite bombing in her debut with 2:35. She faces Ehitu Kiros (2:23:39) and others. 35-year-old former Olympic silver medalist Isabellah Ochichi will run her 2nd marathon (2:35 debut).

Nukuri ran 2:33 after falling in London, a "training run" 2:41 in Mexico City and a 2:29:35 PR in Amsterdam last month. The field in Hawaii won't be a joke as it includes some top international runners such as CGs 10,000 champ Joyce Chepkirui.