BOSTON CALLING: Rotich and honourable Korir prepare to get down to business in America

Wesley Korir of Kenya smiles after crossing the finish line to win the men's division of the 2012 Boston Marathon in Boston (R) Caroline Rotich, of Kenya, wins the women's division of the Boston Marathon, Monday, April 20, 2015, in Boston

Caroline Rotich and Ethiopia’s Lelisa Desisa will defend their titles at the 120th BAA Boston Marathon this evening, one of the world’s most venerated road races.

Although the point-to-point race from the distant western suburb of Hopkinton in Boston’s Back Bay is known more for its challenging profile than its fast times, Boston has been a prestigious international title since long before the professional era.