running calendar takes place in the form of Fidelity Couples Race (9 a.m.).

Defending open division champions Neil and Claire de Ste. Croix will be absent when the starters gun sounds, thus assuring a new duo of wearing the crown.

As of yesterday 67 teams had entered the event and installed as the early favourite was the tandem of Maria Conroy-Haydon and Colin Swan.

Number two pick, Jamal Hart and Georgia Belboda, could also make a challenge while looming dark horses are the matched pair of Winton Woodley and the evergreen Sandra Mewett.

"The favourites have to be Maria and Colin Swan,'' said Julia Hawley, one of the organisers as well as a longshot challenger -- she and her partner Kirk Caza are not given much chance at the top spot.

"No matter what she says about being injured, Sandra is always in great shape and with Woodley makes a good team. Also there is the dual spectre of Jane Christie and Glynn Sexton lurking.'' As far as the married division goes, Jon and Margaret Hateley stand atop the heap in the absence of the likes of Jim and Debbie Butterfield.

Meanwhile, Jeremy Ball and Peggy Cooper should run away with the Masters division, although other notables Rod Allen and his partner, Midge Oliver, might disagree.