It brings together tens of thousands of female and male athletes, from Ethiopia and Kenya and from many other countries. The race boasts an impressive list of past winners including many Olympic and international champions: Haile Gebreselassie (2001), Gebregziabiher Gebremariam (2002), Tirunesh Dibaba (2003) and Tsegaye Kebede (2007).
Ethiopian runners have traditionally done well and Sunday's race is likely to launch the careers of several young Ethiopian stars. Marathon performers such as Dire Tune, Chala Dechasa, Teiba Erkesso and Getu Feleke have all used this race as a stepping stone to greater international honours. About 30, 000 athletes are expected to participate and among the expected guest runners are Lornah Kiplagat, John Treacy and Julia Bleasdale.