Reigning world champion Luke Kibet confirmed Thursday that he will run the Singapore Marathon next month, boosting an event that has plans to grow into a recognised international event.

Kibet, a prison guard, was the first Kenyan in 20 years to win the world marathon gold when he crossed the line in 2hrs 15mins 59secs at Osaka last year.

He has a personal best of 2:08:52 set at the Eindhoven Marathon in 2005, which is six minutes faster than last year`s winning time in Singapore set by fellow Kenyan Elijah Mbogo.

`We are thrilled to announce that we have a world champion in our midst at this year`s Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon,` said Singapore Athletics Association president Loh Lin Kok.

`The participation of such a high-profile runner ensures that we are on track with our plans in growing the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon into a premier running event not just locally but also internationally.`

Two-time Singapore winner Amos Matui, another Kenyan, will also be among the 50,000-strong field.