51.   Many analysts rate them as strong contenders.

52.   Moreover, Giuliani is seen as a strong contender, winning high marks in opinion polls for fighting crime and for handling so-called quality of life issues.

53.   Most any other year, the Nets would be a strong contender for the NBA title.

54.   Neither is Arie Luyendyk, a strong contender to capture the season-opening IRL race.

55.   No Asian-Americans, West Indians or Latin Americans in New York City are Democratic county leaders, members of Congress or strong contenders for citywide office.

56.   Now Brown is with another strong contender, San Diego.

57.   Not on the list of bidders are Los Angeles, Denver, and Philadelphia, cities that Democratic officials had previously considered potentially strong contenders to host the event.

58.   Nissan figures to be a strong contender, with a sequel to its popular dolls-in-a-toy-car spot.

59.   Ohio State could be a strong contender if guard Michael Redd, its best scorer, decides to return.

60.   On the American team, strong male contenders in halfpipe include Ross Powers, Danny Kass and Tommy Czeschin.