Time is running out for people to sign up for the Catlin End-to-End walk which takes place this Saturday.

Participants are encouraged to register online at M3 Wireless at 3 Burnaby Street before 5 p.m. on Friday for the 24-mile trek from St. George's to Dockyard.

The event is about more than just the chance to earn giant blisters on your feet and impossibly sore legs while sweating profusely by walking further than you've ever walked before in the sun.

It's also Bermuda's biggest charity fund-raiser, and generates hundreds of thousands of vital dollars for good causes every year.

Some of the 2,500 people who take part even cross the finishing line with smiles on their faces.

Anne Mello, chairman of the End-to-End Charitable Trust, said in a statement: "This is a tough year for many charities to raise money, and it is more important than ever for people to know that their $40 application fee for this event goes toward support of local charities.

"We rely on registration fees, plus the pledges the walkers and other participants raise from their supporters, to provide donations to local charities.

"Even if people don't feel they can participate in the Catlin End-to-End event, or don't have a participant to support, they can still pledge online or send in a cheque to support the charities.

"There is no minimum pledge — every bit helps!"

This year's event concentrates on supporting young people and seniors, with charities including the Aerie Foundation, Centre for Talented Youth Bermuda, Coalition for the Protection of Children and the Reading Clinic.

Participants can sign up anytime online at www.bermudaendtoend.bm, or visit M3 Wireless at 3 Burnaby Street during office hours this week, with special extended hours of registration available until 7 p.m. today.