It's almost impossible to comprehend how fast the top marathoners in the world run. Imagine covering a mile in less than 5 minutes. Now try to fathom running one of those 25 miles into a marathon — uphill — and making it look easy.

That's what top contenders, Kenyan comrades and brothers-in-law Jimmy Muindi — back for his 15th consecutive appearance — and newcomer Patrick Ivuti will do as they battle the elements (and each other), and gain strength from the cheering crowd tomorrow morning as they strive for the $40,000 first-place prize.

After struggling with injuries, Muindi and Ivuti will face another talented athlete sidelined for much of the year. Hailu Negussie, a 30-year-old Ethiopian with a 2:08:16 personal record, is yet another elite runner to watch.

The women's race could be a battle all the way to the finish line.

Defending champion Alevtina Biktimirova, who won last year's race in 2:33:06, is a strong closer.

“;I love the second half,”; said Biktimirova through her agent, Andrey Baranov. “;The first half I'm sleeping, and the second half I wake up.”;

Then there's Alice Timbilili, a two-time Olympian at 10,000 meters whose resume includes a swift half-marathon personal best time of 1:08:56.

“;After 30K (18.64 miles), the race starts,”; said Timbilili.

Veteran race watchers say the Kenyan could threaten recent Russian dominance — women from Russia have won seven of the last eight local races — to become the first female African winner in Honolulu.