COURSE records are expected to tumble when competitive runners battle it out over 26.2 miles at Sunday’s ABP Newport Wales Marathon.

Dan Nash is so far the favourite in the men’s race following an impressive fourth place finish at the Brighton Marathon last month. The 25-year-old slashed four minutes off his personal best to cross the line in 2:18:51, and will be out to go even faster on the flat, fast Newport route.

Nathan Carpenter also set the standard in the inaugural race after clocking 02:33:31.

In the Women’s race, Wales international Alaw Beynon-Thomas will also be taking part. The 2017 Nos Galan road race champion is untested over 26.2 miles but has run an impressive 1:16:48 over half marathon distance. She will be hoping to smash the record time of 02:44:58 set by local favourite Natasha Cockram last year.

In the 10k race, Run 4 Wales 10k Series champion Matt Clowes will be hoping to get over the disappointment of his injury nightmare at the Brecon Carreg Cardiff Bay Run. He had been leading the way at the 9K mark before suffering a hamstring injury.

The ABP Newport Wales Marathon Race director Steve Brace said: “This year’s elite race is set to be quicker and more competitive.

“Perfect running conditions of around 12c will present the elite and mass fields with the perfect opportunity to set new personal bests, whether they are taking part over our marathon or 10K courses.

“The spectators, who are again set to turn out in their thousands, will be treated to competitive racing no matter where they choose to take in the action.”