Dear Sir,I write to voice my concern to the administrators of the annual Marathon Derby. I am sure that you, the administrators, are cognizant of the prestige that this race holds, not only within the running fraternity of Bermuda but also amongst the sporting public at large.We are all aware that this race is a significant event on our sporting calendar and has stood the test of time. Quite simply, it is “near and dear” to the hearts of the Bermudian people.Many folks venture off to their favourite location, year after year, to cheer the runners on. Young and old, black and white, they all line the route, cheering on the participants and helping to create a very unique and heartwarming atmosphere.For the serious competitors, this is “THE RACE” that they all desire to win. However, just as important, there are scores of “part time runners” who annually enjoy the challenge and the experience.I can still recall as a youngster, growing up in St. George's, the sight of Calvin (Baldy) Hansey, the Virgil twins and even Alabama Anderson, making the trek out of, and also, into Wellington Oval. In those days, motor bikes and cyclists accompanied the runners. Not the most prudent of traits but it all added up to make the unique atmosphere that was and is May 24th.In subsequent years, several interesting battles developed. There was: Mike Watson and Tony Ryan, Kevin Smith and Jay Donawa, and of late, the Marshall brothers and Terrance Armstrong.Please know Sir, that I like my codfish and potatoes on Sundays, my rolls and fish cakes on Good Friday, and I enjoy wearing my blue and blue attire to Cup Match.I also look forward to seeing Carlos Caisey or Neil Paynter beat the drums while marching onto the field on Somers Day, at the fall of a Somerset wicket. Such traditions are an integral part of our social and sporting fabric. In all seriousness, both Cup Match clubs, St. George's and Somerset, are to be commended for valuing and maintaining the century long traditions that have helped to make our annual Cup Match classic the special event that it is.Similarly, with the 24th of May race, tradition is a key quality that has made the race what it is quite simply “THE RACE” that everyone looks forward to.The idea of utilising the annual derby as a means to boost our economy is a laudable one, but at the expense of our traditions . . . I think not.It is my wish that others within the community will similarly add their voice to this concern so that the race officials will come to recognise the vast numbers that wish to have our time honoured slice of tradition remain as it is.Yours truly,WENDELL SMITH