Kayoko Fukushi of Japan is a three-time Olympian (Athens, Beijing, London) and a former world record-holder in the 15K.

She finished second in the 2011 Chicago Marathon with a marathon personal best of 2:24:21. With a half marathon personal record of 1:07:26, she has the speed necessary for a podium finish.

"I'm feeling 'renewed' in my running this year,” Fukushi said. “At the Bank of America Chicago Marathon next month, I am aiming to improve my position from when I finished 3rd in 2:24:38 at the 2011 race, as well as to improve my PB of 2:24:21."