Fearnley to tackle Chicago Marathon

Australian Paralympic champion Kurt Fearnley will attempt to defend his Chicago marathon title on Sunday.

The race will be Fearnley's first since winning Gold in the Beijing Paralympic marathon last month.

Fearnley, who also picked up three individual medals on the track in Beijing, had an arduous Paralympic week with crashes, protests and controversy dogging his campaign. After a short break with family and friends, he is excited to be back on the marathon trail.

"I needed a break after Beijing.  It was always going to be a long week, but after everything that happened I was emotionally drained. It was great to sit down with everyone, relax and reflect on what had happened. I feel refreshed and ready to attack. Last year was the first time I'd raced in Chicago and I like the course, so it's a good place to start up again" Fearnley said.

After Chicago, Fearnley will finish his 2008 season in New York where he will attempt to win his third straight title after wins in 2006 and 2007. Fearnley's 2006 New York win started a run of success that has seen him dominate the marathon distance around the world with 13 wins on five continents, culminating in the defence of his Athens Paralympic Gold in Beijing.