wrecked by two injuries -- but he still harbours hopes of qualifying for July's CAC Games.

First a strained back and then tendonitis in the left foot wreaked havoc with Donawa's training as he attempted to earn himself a spot on the Bermuda track team.

Since his best-ever performance in January's International Race Weekend, when Donawa finished 10th overall in the 10K in a time of 32 minutes, 29 seconds, the injuries have forced him to miss a string of races.

But now he's gradually building up to full throttle in training once more as he prepares for the May 24 Marathon Derby.

And Donawa, who has earned his reputation as one of the Island's top road runners, remained determined to qualify in either the 5,000 metres or the 10,000 for the summer's CAC Games in El Salvador.

"I'm still optimistic about making the CACs -- I've just had to change my plan,'' said Donawa.

"In January, my plan was to try and enter some meets in early spring, but due to the injuries I had to knock that on the head.'' The 28-year-old hurt his back lifting a heavy object in February and the muscle strain sidelined him for a week.

Then the tendonitis which had been bothering his left Achilles tendon for some time became unbearable, forcing him to rest again.

Donawa said: "The tendonitis flared up in late February. I thought I could run through it, but in the end I had to take some time off.

"There was a tremendous build-up of scar tissue, something I am trying to eliminate under treatment. Right now, I feel it's just about under control. My aim now is to get myself in shape for the Marathon Derby in late May and after that enter some track meets and try to qualify for the CACs.'' Donawa was philosophical about his latest injury blow. Many witnessed his misfortune in the 2000 International 10K when he tripped over in the first mile and broke his collar bone.

"Runners are never without injuries. You just have to work through them and stay optimistic,'' he added.

"I've experienced a number of injuries in my running career. This one might be a blessing. Maybe the rest will have done me good.'' The only local to beat Donawa in this year's International 10K was his good friend Terrance Armstrong, a Commonwealth Games 1500 metres runner. Armstrong will help Donawa select US meets in his quest to qualify for the CACs.

Jay Donawa: Hampered first by a strained back and then tendonitis.