For the third successive year, Bermuda's most decorated distance runner Kavin Smith has opted out of International Race Weekend.

Citing varying reasons, ranging from a lack of motivation to simply just wanting a break, Smith insisted yesterday he would be content absorb this weekend's international running spectacle from behind the barricades.

Smith, who turns 36 next month, recorded his best finish in the 1994 International Half Marathon, placing second overall in a time of one hour, 11 minutes and nine seconds.

The eight-time May 24 Marathon Derby champion then went on to record his best-ever time in the same event six years later, when he finished third in a time of 1.09.16 in 2000 - the last time he competed in Bermuda's road running festival.

Since Smith's self-imposed exile began three years ago, Jay Donawa and Terrance Armstrong - last year's first local finisher and sixth overall in a time of 1.15.51 - have shouldered the Island's hopes for success while Smith continues to ponder his next move.

Donawa recently captured the traditional season-opening Fairmont to Fairmont race in a winning time of 37.58.

"I guess you can say that I have just lost the taste to be out there pressing. There's running and then there's running. So I guess you can also say that I have lost the eye of the tiger," suggested Smith yesterday.

Smith added that at present he didn't have the will to make the sacrifice or commitment to training.

"I actually got on the scale yesterday (Sunday) and I noticed that I had gained a bit of weight," laughed Smith.

"I went for my first run and I am very sore today and for the moment I really don't have a clue as to my next move."

Smith said he was also uncertain about defending his local Marathon Derby title in May. "If it happens then it happens, but if if doesn't then it doesn't," he said.

"I have missed International Race Weekend many times. I've never been too consistent in the race."

Smith said that expected Donawa, Armstrong and Larry Marshall all to do well in Saturday's 10K race.

"You still have Jay and Terrance and also Larry Marshall - that is if he finds some way of getting back home for the race", said Smith.

The local champion refused to concede that racing competitively for the past 29 years was beginning to take its toll on his wiry frame.

"Last year I only trained for seven weeks because of a lack of motivation so I hope things don't get any worse.

"But I am just looking to do different things with my time for the moment because I have never really done much else for the majority of my life other than compete.

"I've been competing for 29 years of my life and I need a break."