versus Falcon? While tonight's impending Bank of Butterfield Elite Mile match-up featuring Michal Bartoszak and Joe Falcon may not exactly enter the realm of `The Thrilla in Manila', an NBA championship series or even an Olympic showdown it does have all the trappings of a `heavyweight' clash.

Verbal sparring. Boasts of accomplishments past. A blatant disregard for each other's ability.

Indeed, neither of the headliners are short on confidence.

Falcon, the 1992 winner, is known for making bold predictions -- bordering on arrogance -- while defending champion Bartoszak of Poland has made it known that he fully expects to occupy the top of the podium when the dust settles.

The latter is quick to note how he has beaten the American a few times since placing second in 1992 and sees no reason why that scenario cannot be repeated in Bermuda.

"My plan is to be first,'' said Bartoszak matter-of-factly as he and other foreign competitors met the local media yesterday.

Falcon, meanwhile, arrived in Bermuda later with several other prominent runners.

Projected weather forecasts of gale force winds and rain are making a run for the record, and the $10,000 bonus for a sub-four minute mile unlikely, but could bring those who rely on strength rather than speed to the forefront.

"With the weather like this it is impossible, but if we are perfect we can come close to it,'' added Bartoszak. "The most difficult part is the second quarter because it's uphill and then there is a big turn.'' Although Bartoszak indicated he would be keeping a close eye on Falcon, he was just as concerned about the presence of Russia's Viacheslav Shabounin.

However, it would likely be remiss for the favourites to get caught up in their own dogfight when others such as Gerardo Mosquera, Paul Freary and Dave Reid have the talent to rain on their parade.

Also, masters runner Klaus Goldammer of Germany was added to the Elite Mile field last night.

Last year Bartoszak made it a point to go out hard and batter his opponents into submission on the strength of the early pace.