ESPN Track and Field

MILAN -- New York Marathon race director Mary Wittenberg is hoping world record-holder Paula Radcliffe will be part of the strongest women's field ever at this year's race.

Radcliffe, who pulled out of this month's London Marathon because of a toe injury, has won the New York race three times. She has not yet said when she will return to running.

"We have a very strong field on the ladies' side and we know who our No. 1 choice is -- Paula Radcliffe," Wittenberg said at an event celebrating Italian winners of the New York Marathon.

"I expect it to be the strongest race we've ever had and I expect it to be our best ever mix of top American and world stars on the men's side. I really hope to see Ryan Hall and many of the top American men."

Wittenberg would also like to get Olympic and London Marathon champion Sami Wanjiru to step up to the starting line on Nov. 1.

"It would be good to see Sami, among others," Wittenberg said. "We hope to have as many former champions as possible that are still running, but it is early and no deals have been signed."

The 22-year-old Wanjiru has yet to make a decision as he recovers from his London win.

"I'm not sure as I don't know what condition my body is in right now," Wanjiru said. "I have to start training again, which I will next month. If I feel good, then I'll come to New York."

Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press

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