A physically challenged woman hopes to raise funds during this year’s Bermuda Half-Marathon Derby to cover costs for a new bus to cater to the needs of residents at Summer Haven Residence.

Motivational speaker, bodybuilder and Summer Haven resident ClairAnn Moore intends to raise funds for the vehicle by participating in next month’s 13.1 mile road race from Somerset to Bernard Park.

“On May 24th I will be pushed in a three-wheeler to help raise funds for the Summer Haven van,” Ms Moore said.

“We are trying to do a relay and get a couple of people from different running clubs or gyms to push me over a certain amount of miles and so far two people have volunteered to help me.”

According to Ms Moore, who always stresses the importance of education and setting goals throughout her motivational speeches to students, the existing bus at Summer Haven has been dogged with problems lately and needs to be replaced.

“The bus is in commission for now but it is just a temporary fix,” she said. “That’s why May 24 I am getting someone to push me to raise money for a new one and we hope to raise $90,000.”

Asked what inspired her to embark on the fundraising endeavour, Ms Moore explained: “I guess I am just a person who likes a challenge and I have done the race before several times. And because I am light I think that will make it easier for the pusher.”

Former switchboard operator Ms Moore was born physically disabled and has been confined to a wheelchair due to complications associated with scoliosis, cerebral palsy and polio.

Yet despite these physical challenges she trains several times weekly with trainer Percy Paynter at Sea View Ultimate Fitness Club and participated at last year’s Bermuda Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation’s 26th Annual Night of Champions at Ruth Seaton James Auditorium.

It was during that event she stunned her personal trainer and the audience after strolling on stage with the aid of a walker and an assistant.

Anyone who would like to support Ms Moore and make a donation can do so by contacting chairman of the Summer Haven Trust, Mr John Powell, either at 734-8260 or 293-2099.