he won the Maple Leaf 10-K race yesterday, beating off a strong challenge by second-placed Kavin Smith and Brett Forgesson, who was third.

The race, which is the final one held by organisers at the Canadian Base, which is closing its local facility at the end of the year, took place just outside the base at Daniel's Head in Sandys Parish.

Perry won in 32 minutes and 40 seconds with Smith following to the finish line in 33:00 and Forgession completing the route in 33:12.

Maria Conroy Haydon was the top female finisher in 37:31, placing well ahead of her closest rival, prominent long-distance runner Sandra Mewett (38:32).

Lynn Kynoch was a close third in 38:47.

Among the other male early finishers were Mark Coulby (35:17), Vernon Tankard (35:39), Neil De Ste Croix (36:15) and Greg Hopkins (36:31).

Female runners who placed high were Jennifer Fisher (39:57), Annette Booth (41:19) and Jane Christie (42:16).

MARY PERRY -- Second straight victory over Kavin Smith.