Harbour Nights will host a very different take on the 100-yard dash in the coming weeks as men and women don high heels in a race to the finish.

The July 22 event is part of a fund-raising effort by the Bermuda Hospitals Charitable Trust and the Bermuda Red Cross, two of Bermuda's largest health care charities.

As many as 150 entrants will race in three categories women's, men's and 16 years and under while wearing heels of three inches or more.

The sprints will be followed by an entirely different competition.

Judges Dame Jennifer Smith, Amethyst of Spirit Wear Collection, and Ann Spencer-Arscott, director of the Bermuda Red Cross, will judge footwear to determine the person wearing the 'cutest shoe'.

"The race will be fun to watch," said Mrs. Spencer-Arscott. "I expect the men's race in particular to be quite entertaining."

Executive director of the Bermuda Hospitals Charitable Trust Wendy Augustus said that if successful, the race might become an annual event.

"The race is about fun competition with a display of heights, humour and 'heeling' for a good cause, and we encourage everyone to participate," said Mrs. Augustus.

The registration fee for the event is $30, but those who raise more than $200 will have the fee waived. Participants are asked to arrive by 7 p.m. to have their heels measured, with the races themselves taking place between 7.30 p.m. and 8.30 p.m.

The first 100 participants will be given a free goody bag, and prizes include gym memberships at The Athletic Club, makeovers and gift cards.