Last minute snags have derailed International Race Weekend plans for a number of top runners.

American Lt. Clay Schwabe, who was to have been in last night's Elite Mile, was sidelined by a knee injury and failed to arrive while his compatriot, Kelly Keane, was admitted to hospital, forcing her to withdraw from tomorrow's Half Marathon.

Another Elite Mile athlete, Shadrack Biwott, also pulled out at the 11th hour, citing injury problems.

Zimbabwean Shingirai Badza's quest to dethrone Russian Dmitry Maximov in the Half Marathon ended before the former even set foot in Bermuda.

Badza was reportedly "stuck" in his homeland and unable to reach here in time.

There has also been disappointment for three Russians who planned to come to Bermuda under their own steam.

Their local contact, Peter Lever, was informed yesterday that the trio, including Nail Zabarov who has previously finished in the Marathon's top six, were unable to get the required visas.

It was a close call for American Katie McGregor who is among the top challengers for today's 10K female honours. She missed a flight connection and her arrival was delayed until late last night.

In total, some 850 athletes are expected to participate in the 2003 edition of Bermuda's annual road running festival which continues with the 10K this morning and climaxes tomorrow with the International Marathon and Half Marathon. Despite the drop in numbers on previous years, competition should be thrilling - and even nail-biting in some instances - with various athletes having the potential to break records.

No doubt the $25,000 in prize money and bonuses of $30,000 are added incentives to push runners to produce their best.

For one group the trip to compete in Bermuda is particularly special. It's the 25th year that Thom Gilligan's company, Marathon Tours, has brought in runners for Race Weekend.

While most of the 80-odd competitors in his group are "recreational runners", there are some "older fellows" who, according to Gilligan, "will definitely win their age category".

Joe Fernandez, 74, is expected to excel in the 10K and Half Marathon while 88-year-old Dudley Healy is also in the 10K.

Gilligan, himself, will be competing in the 10K for the 25th time.

"It's the perfect mid-winter getaway vacation for runners to escape the cold and icy climate of northeastern USA and Race Weekend offers something for everyone with the different races and the walk," said the tour organiser.

To celebrate the silver milestone, Marathon Tours will hold their traditional post-race dinner at Cafe Lido at Elbow Beach tomorrow night.