Monday, April 10, 2006 - 12:37 AM

On an uncharacteristically sunny spring morning, Tara Quinn-Smith, just back from the Melbourne Commonwealth games, proved the class of the field. She led the women's race from wire to wire to retain her crown in 27:36, ahead of Calgary's Lisa Harvey (28:33) and Ottawa's Sarah Dillabaugh (28:58).

There was a generally festive atmosphere amongst the sold out crowd on opening day of Canada Running Series 2006, with lots to cheer about as $208,000 was also raised to fight prostate cancer at Princess Margaret Hospital.

On the men's side, a usual battle ensued between some local athletes and the fast out-of-towners who make the annual pilgrimage to Toronto, for one of the longest-standing races to offer prize money. Ryan Mackenzie and Andrew Smith faced off in a spirited battle for the top-prize, 2 of Canada's up and coming hopefuls for future OLympics and Commonwealth Games. Both Torontonians, Mackenzie would claim the top podium spot in a comfortable 20-second finish ahead of his local rival, who is also husband to the women's winner, Tara Quinn-Smith. Both young men were able to fend-off a charge from three african-based runners, who rounded out the top-five. Giitah Macharia from St. Catherines, Danny Kassap from Toronto and Nourddinne Betchim from Montreal, all three coming across the line within 18 seconds of each other.

The race drew praise from many runners who have supported this "spring opener" for many years, as the organization and race services provided for runners was top-notch this year. All runners received the usual pre-race goodie bag, and of course the food and drink afterwards was excellent as usual (bagels, bananas, apples, cookies). In a new twist, runners were given another goodie bag after completing the run, including a post-run t-shirt, water bottles and Vector Cereal samples. There were also goodies galore in the "expo" , including Wrigley's Extra Gum, Kellog's Vector Energy Bars, Allen's Apple juices, and music.

There was even music on the course this year!

Some whacky guy even ran the race in a full-fledged suit, pink shirt from Tuscany, Mickey Mouse tie from Disney, and of course a Harry Rosen sport coat, see photos at:

http://www.canadarunningseries.com/springrunoff/csroRESULT.htm