Running the distance of half the Island would be a difficult challenge for anyone, but just imagine doing it on May 24 under the sweltering sun.

This is the challenge 25 Bermuda Regiment soldiers will embark on for the Bermuda Day Half Marathon to raise money for local charities Sunshine League, Salvation Army and Friends of the Hospice.

This is the first year the Bermuda Regiment have competed in the marathon and they are asking the public to help the team reach its goal of raising $2,500.

So far they have seen a flow of donations and they are urging the public to continue to give their encouragement as well as their financial support. ?We are particularly grateful to our lead corporate donor, AON Bermuda, for their generous donation to the Charitable Trust in respect of this event,? Public Relations Officer Major Wayne Smith said in an official statement.

Some of the biggest hurdles for the team will be meeting the strenuous physical demands, given many are not long distance runners, and the heat. The soldiers have not had a lot of time to devote to training for this 13.1 mile challenge.

Marathon participant Lance Corporal Jonathan Tumbridge said he will use the marathon to physically prepare for an overseas camp he will attend next month in Canada. While the cause will be rewarding, he added: ?Of course it is going to be long and hard.?

The entire team should be easily spotted in the marathon by their matching T-shirts reading: ?Bermuda Regiment, your regiment.?

The public can donate to the team through the member?s individual pledge sheets or by forwarding cheques to The Bermuda Regiment, PO Box HM 1006, Hamilton HM DX.

For further information, please contact Paul Kerton on 238-1045 or pmkertongov.bm.