Bernard Kipyego will prepare to defend his Bupa Great Edinburgh Run title next month in Holland rather than Kenya.

The 22-year-old is currently in brilliant form and last Sunday stunned his more experienced rivals with a thrilling if unexpected victory at the Vattenfall Berlin half-marathon.

Kipyego, in his debut over the distance, flew to a very fast time of 59 minutes 34 seconds, using his renowned sprint finish to beat off the challenges of compatriots Sammy Kosgei and Wilson Kiprotich.

Now the 2007 world cross-country bronze medallist is adamant after some preparatory work he can step down comfortably to 10 kilometres when returning to Edinburgh on May 3.

"It makes sense to stay in Europe rather than have to take long flights before the race and I want to stay at sea level as well," said Kipyego.

Kipyego made no secret he feels it is imperative particularly after his eye catching performance in Berlin, he retains his crown over a very tough course in the Scottish capital.

"Before my victory in Berlin I have always said Edinburgh was the best win of my career and even now I rate it almost alongside my success last Sunday," he said.

Kipyego, who made an almost seamless transition into the senior ranks after winning the 2005 World cross junior silver medal, added: "But there is another big reason why I want to win again and in a fast time.

"At the beginning of the year I ran at the cross country in Edinburgh and was very disappointed that I finished only eighth.

"It's okay for people to say that was good given the strength of my opponents, but I was not happy and I should have done better.

"Since then having been invited to come back and defend my Edinburgh title, it has been my main focus."

Amongst those he will face will be Commonwealth 10,000 metres and Ugandan arch-rival Boniface Kiprop who he defeated in a thrilling sprint finish last May.

"We are both very good friends but I know he will be thirsting for revenge so I will be wary," said Kipyego.

"It isn't going to be easy."

Tanzania's Commonwealth marathon gold medallist Samson Ramadhani is also competing along with top British distance runners Andy Baddeley and Dan Robinson.