Swan's Running Club will host the annual 'Sir' Stanley Burgess road race this Sunday in memory of one of the Island's greatest runners.

Legend Burgess, who died in 1984, took part in races for over 50 years, beginning in 1921 when he was 20.

He posted six May 24 Derby victories in the official race and another six wins when the Derby was split into two events..

This weekend's race director, Roddy Bassett, recalled that Burgess was well known for his bizarre race preparation which began with a bath in port wine, honey, beet tops and rum.

"He rubbed his legs with a mixture of myrrh, turtle oil, oil of wintergreen with hazel, and old rum," said Bassett, himself a prominent member of the road race community for many years.

Burgess' final race was in 1983 when he was 84. He was awarded the Queen's Certificate and Badge of Honour in 1971.

Several of those who are preparing for the upcoming centennial May 24 Derby (to be run on May 25 this year) are expected to compete this Sunday.