NAIROBI, Aug. 10 (Xinhua) -- World half marathon medalist Mary Wacera of Kenya is ready to challenge defending champion and compatriot Caroline chepkoech at the Falmouth Road Race in Massachusetts, USA on Aug. 19.

"I believe I have the necessary experience to win in Falmouth. But I have respect for the champion and others in the race. It will be hard to everyone," Wacera said on Friday.

The winner of the race will take home 10,000 U.S. dollars with runners-up taking 7,000 dollars.

Race organizers have confirmed that men's race champion Stephen Sambu will also be defending the crown.

Sambu, 30, who has won the race on four occasions, is returning to make another bid and write history as the most successful athlete to have ever graced the 11km road race.

Also keen to curve a niche for herself will be Chepkoech, who last year became the first woman to defend her Falmouth title since Dutchwoman Lornah Kiplagat won three straight from 2000-2002. Enditem