Four Bermuda runners broke the three hour barrier and several achieved personal bests as an Island contingent of close to 50 joined the 20,000-plus field for yesterday's annual New York City Marathon.

Former Commonwealth Games marathoner Brett Forgesson led home the Bermuda team in a time of two hours, 42 minutes and 56 seconds while perennial New York marathon entrant Manuel Lopes followed in 2:49.

But two of the most impressive local performances came from Ricky Sousa and Geoffrey Blee who clocked 2:57 and 2:59 respectively, both personal bests.

Top Bermuda female Lynn Patchett was the first local woman in 3:10:20 while her husband Harry Patchett, a last-minute entrant, completed the 26.2 mile route through five New York boroughs in a creditable 3:17.

Patchett, who was two minutes outside her best time, said conditions for the race were ideal.

"Conditions were super," she said. "Temperatures were around 59 F. It was sunny with clear blue skies with a hint of a wind . . . just ideal.

"The crowds were spectacular. Nothing seemed any different in New York. Everything was just terrific.

"A lot of the Bermuda runners had good runs, but I think Ricky (Sousa) and Geoff (Blee) were very impressive. I know they're delighted with their times."

Bermuda finishers included (times unofficial):

Brett Forgesson 2:42.56; Manuel Lopes 2:49; Ricky Sousa 2:57; Geoffrey Blee 2:59; Lynn Patchett 3:10:20; Harry Patchett 3:17 Gerhard Boonstra 3:23; Werner DeBruin 3:23; Herbert Duarte 3:27:46; Adham El-Behary 3:30; Gilbert Darrell 3:25.50; John Brunson 3:36; David Cooke 3:41; Carlo Berretta 3:42; Joe Froncioni 3:47; Robert O'Connor 3:48; Martin Nearon 3:50; Caroline Conway 3:55; Steve Conway 4:05; Edwina Arorash 4:37; Karen Perinchief 4:43; Dennis Cherry 4:57; Meredith Head 4:57; George Jones 5:12; Donna Mae Smith 7:12.

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