welcoming participants to International Race Weekend as they arrive at the Civil Air Terminal.

Mr. and Mrs. Jack Quinn say they help out local organisers not for prestige nor for financial reward, but purely out of their love for the Island and its people.

The Maryland couple said their duties began after they met local runner Mr.

Peter Lever.

"We've been here so often and always enjoyed ourselves,'' said Mrs. Jeannie Quinn. "Because of that, we thought we would try and help out, give a little back.'' The Quinns, who have both participated in the annual races, said they first visited Bermuda on a business trip. It was at that time they discovered International Race Weekend.

The couple returned the following year, not only to participate in the marathon, but to help greet its competitors.

Donning a shirt bearing the slogan "It's best in Bermuda'', Mrs. Quinn will compete this year while her husband won't, although both have again been on hand to greet other visiting athletes.

"We answer any questions they might have,'' she said, "such as where to register, how to find their hotels, how to rent a cycle and so on. The Bermuda Track and Field Association expects us after all these years and we've become friends with many of the repeat athletes who recognise us.'' The couple said they tell all their friends about the Island and especially love the weather at this time of the year. "This might seem cold to Bermudians but it's a lot nicer than it is at home right now,'' they said.

RACE WEEKEND WELCOME -- Americans Mr. and Mrs. Jack Quinn (centre) have become a regular part of the welcoming committee for International Race Weekend participants. The couple visit Bermuda each year for the event, staying at Salt Kettle guest house in Paget. Above, they welcome US athletes Mr. Ray Wolf, Ms Betty Williams and Ms Ginger Doubt at the Airport.