human traffic-jam, winding its way around the coastal interior of this picture-postcard North Atlantic paradise.

Welcome to the 17th annual International Race Weekend.

More than 700 athletes comprise a veritable hodge-podge of talent, with runners representing several points from around the globe and a talent range from recreational runners to the world class elites for which this event has become known.

Belgium, Canada, Russia, England, Norway, Hungary and the United States are all represented as many runners seek relief from snow-swept, frost-bitten homelands.

Indeed, six of the seven reigning champions have returned in hopes of earning the right to hold their coveted crowns for yet another year, but, as usual, face strong challenges from those seeking to grace the winners' circle.

ADT Bermuda 10-K champion Marcus Barreto is the lone absentee from the list, with Jerry Lawson of the US installed as the pre-race favourite for Saturday's event.

On the women's side, Anne-Marie Letko bids for a repeat in both the ADT Bermuda 10-K and Sunday's ADT Bermuda Half Marathon, just as fellow American Kim Goff makes a dash at her second consecutive ADT Bermuda Marathon title.

Two-time marathon men's champ Robert Yara can expect a tougher climb than in 1993 when he eased to victory, as he will have to deal with a three-pronged European challenge.

However, possibly the most anticipated moment awaits in tomorrow night's Bank of Butterfield Elite Mile beginning at 7.30 p.m. as Poland's Michal Bartoszak -- 1993 champion -- and Joe Falcon of the US -- 1992 champion -- square off.

STARTING LINE -- More than 700 athletes will pound Bermuda's roads seeking running glory this weekend.