But Smith didn't have everything his own way as he was chased over the near-five-mile course by Brett Forgesson, who eventually finished 12 seconds back. Smith clocked 30.46, Forgesson 30.58 with Errol Cormack taking third place in 31.20.

Top master was Harry Patchett who was 10th overall in 34.29.

A small women's field saw Penelope Butterfield take the honours over a shorter course of just under three miles. She clocked 19.47, ahead of second-placed Maria Duffy (21.42), who was the first master, with Karen Robson third (21.43).

Meanwhile, a bumper field of almost 100 youngsters turned out for the opening junior races of the season.

Richard Walcott (18.59) and Patrina Swan (12.22) were the respective secondary schools boys and girls winners while Lawson Williams (8.59) led home a field of more than 40 in the primary boys and Tiffany Eatherley (10.00) won the primary girls.

The cross-country series for both seniors and juniors continues this Saturday at Astwood Park, starting at 9.00 a.m.

Full results, see Scoreboard MARTIAL ARTS Wet weather failed to dampen the spirits of 26 junior martial artists who competed in the ninth annual KICK -- Kids International Competition Karate -- tournament on Sunday.

Shomeiko Ingham, Justin Hutchings and Carlo Hizon were named grand champions in their respective divisions, joining other first-place finishers eligible for selection to the Bermuda Karate Organisation team which will be competing at the AAU Nationals in Orlando next March.

Mark Watson took gold in weapons as well as in forms in the advanced under-10 division, edging US visitor Grant Beck. Michael Medeiros and Hutchings were the only other double winners, while Hizon, Justin David Cann and Artur Paulino had a first and second.

Dominic Butterfield took second place in both forms (advanced 10-15) and fighting (boys 12 and under) and received a special award for fighting spirit.