New Delhi, Nov 22 (IANS) Defending champion in the Indian women’s category of the Delhi Half Marathon, Preeja Sreedharan is ready to retain her title with a new course record.

“I have been practicing for the marathon. Several good competitors are here for the race. This time I will try to break the record and come below an hour and 17 minutes,” Preeja said Saturday.

Runner-up in the 2013 edition, Kavita Raut is also the course record holder with a timing of an hour and 17.12 minutes in 2008. Kavita is aware of the competition.

“The prize money is good and it will motivate us to perform better and break the record. I am a little nervous about the race,” said Kavita.

Joining Preeja and Kavita are Sudha Singh and Monika Athare.

Sudha resumed her training after a 10-day break post the Asian Games. An Olympian (2012) and Asian Games 2010 gold medallist in steeple chase, Sudha is eager to put up a good performance in Delhi.

“This time I am coming from the Asiad and started training for the half marathon after a 10-day break. I will try to do my best here.”

The 22-year-old Monika may be the youngest of this elite Indian women’s pack but she is eager to make her mark amongst seasoned runners.

“I have prepared well for this event. All my contenders are experienced professionals but I am motivated to put up a good show.”

The Indian men – Kheta Ram, BC Tilak, Nitender Singh, Gopi T and Soji Mathew – are also upbeat ahead of the event.