Highly-fancied Margaret Okayo turned what at one stage appeared to be certain defeat into an easy victory in this morning’s Flora London Marathon.

Martin Lel left fellow Kenyan and defending champion Rodgers Rop in his wake to win the New York City men’s marathon crown yesterday, as compatriot Margaret Okayo took the women’s race in a course record time.

SONIA O’SULLIVAN may have to join the exclusive club of women who have run under two hours and 20 minutes if she is to win the New York City Marathon tomorrow.