Athletics: Ny Hat-Trick Will Help Ease Paula's Pain

Nov 2 2008

PAULA RADCLIFFE wants to bounce back from another big disappointment by romping to glory in the Big Apple today.

The English ace hopes to put the pain of a dismal Beijing Olympics behind her by claiming her third victory in the New York marathon.

And the omens are good for Radcliffe as her previous titles came when critics were doubting her.

She claimed a memorable success in 2004 following failure to finish at the Athens Games while last year's triumph came on her return after the birth of daughter Isla.

But the 34-year-old said: "I desperately didn't want to have something to prove this year.

"I wanted to defend my title after doing well in Beijing.

"The win in 2004 was satisfying because I re-established myself after what happened in Athens.

"And it was special last year to have Isla and my family there."

Radcliffe faces stiff competition from African stars Gete Wami, Catherine Ndereba, Rita Jeptoo and Dire Tune in today's race.