Karen Adams, are confident they can lower their winning times from last week's road race classic.

And in the case of Smith, that would mean improving on his new course record of 1.09.49, set along the 13.2 mile route from Somerset to Hamilton.

Following Saturday's prize presentation at the Leopards Club, the two champions said they felt that, barring injuries, quicker times could be on the cards for next year.

Smith, whose winning performance a week ago booked his spot on Bermuda's team for the CAC championships in Puerto Rico, felt that if he remained in top condition and motivated, he was capable of running an unprecedented sub 1.09.

"I certainly can see myself running under 1.09,'' said 30-year-old Smith.

"If things go the way they have been going for me this year, and I remain fairly motivated and continue to have fun doing what I am doing, yes I can see it happening.'' Reflecting on last week's win, Smith said he "really didn't challenge'' the record until noticing the clock on entering Bernard Park.

"I wasn't running to break the record, just running to win. When I came around the bend on the field and saw 1.09 on the clock, I went for it.'' With a series of wins behind him, Bermuda's undisputed king of the road said he now had an even greater desire to compete at a high level.

"I haven't been able to perform in the last few years because of different reasons,'' he said. "But now that I am feeling myself again, I'm enthusiastic and I'm hopeful that by this time next year I can run in the 1.08s.

"On that course I can see myself running that time. At the half marathon mark I was 1.9.10, and I wasn't running for that point ... I was still running to get a kick in at the end.'' Adams was somewhat more conservative in describing her capabilities but believed she could again run under 1.26 as she did seven years ago when finishing second to winner Sandra Mewett in her first appearance in the race.

"I still think there is a better time in me over that distance,'' said Adams.

"I feel that I can bring my times down. My training has been a bit sporadic for the past year or two when I had a recurring injury.

"Although my training still hasn't been quite what I would like it to be I am satisfied with my time this year. But I know that I will have to train a little more consistently before I really get back to my best. I am not predicting anything for next year, though. I'm not one to predict.'' Adams said it had been suggested she enter triathlons in order to build up her overall strength, but said she hadn't made any decision, noting both her swimming and cycling would have to show considerable improvement in order to be competitive at that sport.