Pat Petersen, the 28-year-old from Lake Ronkonkoma, L.I., was supposed to have gotten his ticket to the Seoul Olympics today.

Pat Petersen of Lake Ronkonkoma, L.I., a favorite to win, dropped out after 15 miles with a stitch.

He is Pat Petersen.

For Pat Petersen, every marathon is nearly 30 miles long.

Like Ikangaa, Pat Petersen of Bay Shore, L.I., linked his problems yesterday to a physical condition.

Pat Petersen, America's fastest marathoner this year, announced yesterday that he would run in the New York City Marathon Nov. 1.

Maybe because his "thrill of victory" would not be as dramatic as in past races, the focus was shifted to Pat Petersen and his battle for second place.

Also withdrawing was Pat Petersen, who has been the top American finisher three times.

One of those was Pat Petersen of Ronkonkoma, L.I., who had led for 14 miles of the race.

THE Hudson County training sessions began on a Sunday morning in January and have become a ritual for Pat Petersen.