that he was `aided' in his charge during Sunday's ADT Bermuda Half-Marathon.

Kavin Smith won the race, however, controversy unfurled midway through the race during a time when local Tracy Wright had surged to a large lead over Mitzi.

However, as they headed along Harrington Sound Road, where a 25-knot headwind required negotiation, an unofficial runner, identified as Jerry Lawson, ran with Mitzi.

Lawson at times appeared to shield the former from the full impact of the strong gusts, making the task easier, while Wright battled the elements alone.

"I had no idea he (Lawson) was not a part of the race and when he told me he was not I got away from him,'' explained Mitzi, clearly wrankled by the reports.

"I don't need anybody to help me. In fact it was more of a disadvantage, because after he went by I was zonked out...it didn't actually help me at all.

"It was the second slowest half-marathon, with my slowest being last year when I was second.'' Organiser Peter Lever backed Mitzi, noting how the New Yorker would not have readily known Lawson was not running, as the half-marathoners only carried race numbers on the front of their person, whereas full marathoners had tags on both sides.

Offering apologies at last night's prize presentation was Lawson, who although registered for the race elected not to compete, instead using it as a training run.

A day previous had seen the lanky Lawson place fourth in the ADT Bermuda 10-K.

Peering back over the preceding three days, Lever announced it to be a roaring success for all parties concerned, spectators, officials, competitors and, most importantly, Bermuda.

"From a purely personal point of view, rather than that of an official, I think this was the best (International) Race Weekend ever,'' said Lever, finally having time for much-needed rest and relaxation after several sleepless nights.

"The intensity. Every race was competitive and I don't think we've ever had that before.

"It was exciting for spectators and competitors and every athlete or spectator I've talked to have said how well things have gone.

"The athletes had no complaints, that's the main thing.'' He noted how the motor was already gearing for next year, with a meeting held yesterday with Thom Gilligan of Marathon Tours to start ironing out future travel arrangements.

DAVID MITZI -- `I don't need anybody to help me.'