Updated: Sun Apr. 19 2009 7:03:24 PM

ctvtoronto.ca

A popular Toronto Transit Commission subway mechanic hopes to set a world record for amputee runners when he takes part in the Boston Marathon tomorrow.

Rick Ball, a 43-year-old father of two from Orillia, Ont., began training as an amputee runner when he was first fitted with a carbon fibre prosthesis less than two years ago.

In the interim, Ball has managed to set the world record amputee marathon time squarely in his sights.

In July of last year, Ball ran a full marathon in only three hours and 10 minutes -- only six minutes off the current world record.

In fact, he qualified for this year's Boston Marathon in the able-bodied division.

His coach, Roger DePlancke, said Ball's rapid progress has been highly impressive.

"He's got a lot of ability. He's done amazingly well, I'll have to admit, in a short time," DePlancke told ctvtoronto.ca on Sunday afternoon.

Ball trained by running nearly 80 kilometres per week, mostly in morning runs.

DePlancke said that training included at least one long run, of 32 to 38 kilometres, each week, in addition to other endurance and performance-related exercises.

"He had a goal of running the Boston Marathon and he had no experience at all, but he's certainly got the desire and the capability to do it," DePlancke said.

Ball's achievements have made him a favourite son in his hometown, where he was recently named Orillia's Athlete of the Year.

His story has caught attention outside of Orillia as well: The Boston Globe wrote a short profile about Ball on Friday, all in his first visit to the Massachusetts city.

And Ball has got the support of his fellow transit workers as well.

Bob Kinnear, the president Amalgamated Transit Union Local 113, says Ball is "an amazing role model" who will be cheered on from Toronto when he makes his run on Monday.

Ball will be wearing a bib with the number 5424, which his fans can use to follow his efforts in Boston on the web on Monday.