returned to the Island after turning in good performances at the Montreal International Triathlon in Canada.

Canadian professional David LeMaire won the overall title, but successfully defending his crown in the 35 to 39 age bracket was Hopkins as he completed the one-and-a-half-kilometre swim, 40-kilometre cycle and 10-kilometre run in one hour, 58 minutes and 41 seconds, which was a minute faster than the time he recorded last year.

Under cool and windy conditions, perfect for racing, the local athlete disposed of several professionals along the way, sounding a warning to those planning to compete in the upcoming Bermuda National Championships by finishing as second amateur.

"I compete very well against the professionals,'' said policeman Hopkins who was forced to skip the World Championships this year due to conflicting schedules, "but I am under no illusions about my ability to perform at that level.'' Doyling showed the form that has earmarked him as one of the Island's top young triathletes recording a personal best time of 2:02:04, good for sixth in the 20 to 24 age group and 18th overall.

Meanwhile, Mary Hopkins (25 to 29 age group) shrugged off the effects of a virus that had limited her training leading up to the event and placed fourth in 2:22:00.

GREG HOPKINS -- Second amateur in Montreal and first in 35 to 39 age group.