Some of the big guns for the upcoming May 24 Marathon Derby – to be run on May 25 this year – flexed their muscles on Sunday morning in the annual 'Sir' Stanley Burgess race.

And defending Derby champion Chris Estwanik again showed he's the man to beat as he conquered the 5K course in a blistering 14 minutes, 31.4 seconds, one of the fastest times ever recorded over that distance by a local runner.

But one of his main challengers later this month, Lamont Marshall, has signalled that he could be a major threat over the longer distance (13.1 miles) when he raced home in 15:15.2 to take second place.

Top cyclist and triathlete, Tyler Butterfield, currently back on the Island, also indicated he's in good form as he claimed third place in 15:34.5.

Perennial Derby runner-up Jay Donawa, still hoping for his first victory in the Island's showpiece running event, placed fourth in 15:46.8 and unknown on the local running scene, Hassan Somner wrapped up the top five, clocking 16:39.7.

Multiple Marathon Derby winner, Kavin Smith, now competing in the Masters Division (over 40) claimed sixth in 16:41.5 in what proved to be one of the strongest road race fields this year.

Another former Derby champion Tracy Wright, seemingly warming up for the 100th anniversary event, placed 14th place.

Victoria Fiddick established her credentials for a Derby triumph as she romped home first among the females, placing 15th overall in 18:45.7.

Andrea Banks (21:18.3) finished second and Amanda Maenpaa third in 21:52.7.

Full race results

see Page 10