By Daniel Wong

WHEN the Standard Chartered Bank decided to invest in the Singapore Marathon in 2002, the Singapore Sports Council (SSC) saw it as a key event that could bring people to the Republic.

The council's vision is fast becoming a reality. From 473 foreign runners in 2002, the number shot up to 2,620 last year.

This year, it expects between 2,800 and 3,000 athletes from overseas.

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