Marathon effort with no drama is Hassan's goal

OLYMPIC champion Sifan Hassan is hoping for a drama-free London Marathon as she eyes a repeat of her successful debut in 2023.

- By DUNCAN BECH

Hassan, a gold medal winner in the 5,000m and 10,000m at Tokyo 2020, made her debut at the distance two years ago and caused a stir by topping the podium despite an eventful race.

The 32-year-old Dutchwoman cried before the start, stopped twice to stretch a sore left hip and almost collided with a motorbike when veering right to collect water from a hydration station.

“London will always be a great memory in my career that I can never forget about, but I don’t want any drama,” said Hassan, who is regarded by many as the most successful female athlete of all time, having also won Olympic bronze and world gold at 1,500m.