In the Manchester, Connecticut road race over 4.75 miles today, Mark Carroll was bidding to repeat his win of last year. A big effort in the last mile brought him to the shoulder of the leader, Kenyan David Makori, however, Carroll had to give way to his opponent in the last few strides, taking second in a time of 21:28, just a second behind the winner. Carroll’s time was a massive 21 seconds faster than last year’s winning time. Afterwards he said he actually felt very good throughout, but lacked the speed needed to get past Makori. Other Irish finishers included Neville Davey, 19th in 23:10; Ken Nason 21st in 23:13; and Donal O’Sullivan 25th in 23:33. Quite a big Irish group is forming Stateside these days, with Nason, Davey, and Niall Bruton training with Carroll. Martin McCarthy is set to join with them after Christmas as they make serious preparations for the Sydney Olympics. Breeda Dennehy Willis of Bandon, finished fourth in the womens race.