her age group in the 10K cross country at the World Veterans Athletics Championships in Buffalo, New York on Thursday.

Competing in the 50-54 age division, Couper clocked 46 minutes, 41 seconds over an undulating course, finishing behind two Americans and a Swede. The gold went to America's Joan Ottaway in 42.57.

According to local coach, Eddie Fisher, who watched the event, several runners failed to finish and some were taken to hospital after suffering in temperatures of over 90F.

Couper's race, which incorporated the 40-44 and 45-49 age divisions, had 92 finishers with the Bermudian placing 28th overall.

Today sees Bermuda's other entrant at the Games, Jennifer Fisher, compete in the semi-finals of the 400 metres hurdles with the final scheduled for tomorrow. She will also run in the 800 metres heats tomorrow.