1.   Champions fought the top contenders and, if they lost, return fights were often arranged.

2.   Also pending is the announcement of a defense secretary, a post for which former Indiana Sen. Dan Coats is a top contender.

3.   Although Bush is considered the top contender for the GOP nomination, McCain has been moving up in recent polls.

4.   American Steve Redgrave might be the best hope for a medal, but virtually every race has at least five or six top contenders.

5.   Among the top contenders are Michigan Gov. John Engler, Wisconsin Gov. Tommy Thompson and Ohio Gov. George Voinovich, as well as New Jersey Gov. Christine Todd Whitman.

6.   An African cardinal is considered one of the top contenders to be the next pope.

7.   Analysts say the top contender is still Raytheon Co.

8.   And because they were where they were, their managers, Lamont and Phil Garner, were top contenders for manager of the year awards.

9.   And Sen. Phil Gramm, a top contender for the GOP nomination, jokes about keeping his heart in a jar on his desk.

10.   Anky van Grunsven of The Netherlands is the other top contender.