after being struck down by injury.

One of the pre-race favourites, Forgesson strained his right Achilles tendon during a recent training run at Shelly Bay field and yesterday, while hopeful, said it was doubtful he would be able to recover in time to take part in the annual spectacle.

"It's just too painful at this stage,'' said Forgesson, who was third back in 1991. "I'll be getting physio treatment and hope it comes around in time.

"It's really disappointing because I missed it last year.'' The New Zealander similarly was struck down last year prior to the race, as was another favourite Kavin Smith, and looked to be a major challenger this time to the throne, with defending champion Erol Cormack not expected to take part.

"I was looking forward to it,'' he said. "I was just doing a work-out at Shelly Bay. (The tendon) was tight before I started and then when I finished and cooled down it became really sore.'' This weekend's End To End Relay may also suffer through Forgesson's absence as he was to run with the New Winners Edge team, but has had to be replaced in the line-up by Rod Allen.

Even without the services of Forgesson the side is favoured in the mixed category as Mary Mowbray, Anna Eatherly, Greg Hopkins, Steve Doyling, Greg Hopkins and Allen look capable of pulling up the slack.

Hamilton Harries are the overwhelming favourites with the likes of Mark Perry, Neil de Ste. Croix, Neil Halliday, Steve Donnelly, and Gary Taylor counted among their members.

However, the MAAC Masters, containing several members of the Corporate Relay winning educators team could present some difficulties.

The MAAC Munchies have a formidable outfit in the all female category and look likely to dominate there.

The race begins at 9 a.m at St. George's Square and will take a new route via Wilkinson Avenue instead of North Shore, where roadworks are continuing.

BRETT FORGESSON -- Strained tendon makes him doubtful for Marathon Derby.