As he crossed the finish line, Khannouchi burst into tears and was wrapped in a bear hug by his wife, Sandra, his coach and agent.

Khannouchi, a Moroccan who is trying to become an American citizen, gets US $ 165,000 for his victory, including a $ 100,000 bonus for the World record.

Khannouchi, also the 1997 winner, trailed Kenyan Moses Tanui by 33 seconds at the 34-kilometre on a course that drew many of the world's top runners because of its relative ease. But he gradually cut the margin, beating Tanui by 34 seconds.

Little-known David Morris, originally from Alaska who now lives and trains in Japan, finished fourth and set an American record of 2:09:32. His previous best was 2:15:25 in Pittsburgh last year.

In the women's race, defending champion Joyce Chepchumba (Kenya) edged countrywoman Margaret Okayo, winning in 2:25:59 seconds. Okayo,running her first marathon, finished in 2:26:00.