Amid shock over International Race Weekend's cancellation, there was one lingering question on Bermudian athletes' lips: “Where's our money?”

Several of the Island's ace runners are still awaiting prize money for the last two editions of the annual classic and - now that financial troubles are the reason for no 2005 Race Weekend - they fear their winnings may never see the right hands.

Marathon veteran Brett Forgesson said he did not know any local runners who were paid for this year. In addition, he is still to receive upgraded payment for the 2003 International Marathon after the original winner was disqualified for drug use.

“I think everybody who won a prize would certainly like to see what's coming to them. Everyone went out and worked hard for their achievements,” he said, disclosing that prize cheques had bounced in the past.

His wife and local female champion runner, Anna Eatherley, is also eager to be shown the money after her exploits in the mid-January event.

Jay Donawa, too, queried what would become of the cash he had accumulated from excelling in the 10K and Half Marathon.

“I sent the (Bermuda Track and Field Association) president an e-mail about ten days ago and I have not heard from her,” said the avid distance runner.

An irate Peggy Couper spoke on behalf of her daughter Ashley, who is based in the USA, noting the money matter goes beyond Race Weekend.

“Ashley is still owed $2,000 by the BTFA. About $600 is from Race Weekend and the rest of the funds are from various things they promised to pay for and have not paid for,” said Couper, herself a top competitor.

“Then you see Judy (Simmons) prancing around at the Olympics at great expense and we haven't been paid for stuff. That's very bad.

“They owe a lot of money to many people. Where is that going to come from?”

Couper, who was planning to see if she could manage both the 10K and Half Marathon at age 60, was “stunned” at the news.

“I can't see why they can't get their act together. A lot of people will not be surprised that they are so disorganised,” she said, adding that Ashley was also planning to defend her Front Street Mile title.

“The running community has been struggling with a lack of enthusiasm and leadership from the top for a long time and this will be a big blow. I am really disappointed.”

Lynn Patchett was among those lucky to get her $1,000 prize money this year but only after persistent requests. However, she is yet to be paid $250 for last year.

“A thousand dollars is a big deal and I was really put out by that and the fact they were not giving the prize money to local people who deserved it. We work hard for that money and we're competing against international athletes,” she said, adding that her Race Weekend cheques have also bounced in the past.

Masters competitor Ricky Sousa Sr. questioned why the BTFA didn't try to hand the race series to another organisation or try to recruit help.

“This was a big event that a lot of people looked forward to and, to be honest, it was one of the things the BTFA did a decent job on.”

He said the BTFA should have approached the athletics community for suggestions on how to save Race Weekend.

Steve Burgess termed it “a sad day in the running community and for the Island”, adding that the repercussions extend to the tourism industry which enjoys a large influx of capital during the event.

Winner of the local men's Mile this year, Sheldon Thompson, was dumbstruck but noted “it was something you could see coming”.