next Tuesday's Heritage Classic from Somerset to Hamilton, at least one challenger insists the result is not a foregone conclusion.

"If I feel good on the day then it's trouble for everybody,'' warned 32-year-old Earl Godfrey.

Last year Godfrey saw his dream of winning the race for the first time shattered when he was thrown to the ground after clashing with Clark Tear while negotiating the corner of Queen and Church Streets.

"This is the people's race, everybody is asking if I am going to be ready for it,'' said Godfrey. "They like the way I ride. I'm an exciting person. I like to be pumped, that's the way I live my life.'' But while the high-spirited Godfrey remains optimistic about his chances, a question mark over his fitness prevents him from predicting an outright victory.

With just a few days left before what is now considered one of the biggest races on the cycling calendar, Godfrey's main concern is his physical condition.

Like Tear, he hasn't been particularly active in regular road racing for some time, having only taken part in one recent warm-up event.

Godfrey says he has a burning ambition to win the event, whether it be this year or some time in the future.

Today and tomorrow he intends putting himself through a gruelling physical test in an effort to evaluate his fitness, and from that evaluation will plan his tactics for Tuesday.

A frequent performer in the May 24 race, Godfrey said: "I'll know by Sunday just how competitive I will be this time around.'' He is, however, one of a handful who will be attempting to stop reigning champion Packwood from completing what would be an impressive hat-trick.

While Packwood is undoubtedly the man to beat, Godfrey claimed Dana Henry was one rider who could give the champion a run for his money.

"It's a short race and anybody can win it,'' said Godfrey. "It's not a glory race, it's a gut's race and whoever has the guts when it comes down to the end will be the person who takes it all. Basically that is what it's all about.

"I would love to win it, but when my time comes it's going to happen. I want to win and then put on the running shoes and do the Marathon Derby for the first time. And I hope to accomplish it all before I reach 40.'' Tuesday's race is open only to financial members of the Bermuda Bicycle Association and registration forms can be obtained from the New Winner's Edge, Church Street, between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. today and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

tomorrow.

There will be a late registration at the start until 8.45 a.m.

The regular race fee is $10 while the late entry fee is $20.

The race starts on Middle Road, Somerset, opposite the Royal Naval field.

DOWN AND OUT -- Earl Godfrey crashes to the ground after colliding with Clark Tear in last year's Heritage Classic. He's hoping for better luck this time around.