More than 250 people have signed up to take part in a health challenge which will get them fit enough to run a half marathon.

Last October the Argus Group launched its Argus 400 Challenge in celebration of Bermuda's 400th anniversary and the 100th anniversary of the Bermuda Day Half-Marathon Derby. The aim is to try and get people fit enough the run the May 24 race.

So far 265 people have registered to take part in the challenge their average age is 40, and three-quarters of those who have registered are women. Organisers say more people can still register to take part.

President and chief executive officer of the Argus Group, Gerald Simons said: "With the New Year upon us and New Year's resolutions under consideration, we hope that everyone takes steps toward a more active lifestyle in 2009.

"The Argus 400 Challenge is proving to be a positive incentive for those who wish to get fit this year and I encourage anyone who is interested to sign up for it soon."

President of the Bermuda Day Half-Marathon Derby Committee, Dr. Gina Tucker said: "We're absolutely delighted with the response to the Argus 400 Challenge.

"In a typical year, we have approximately 600 runners participate in the race with only 200 new runners.

"If you add the 211 new runners that the Argus 400 Challenge has already attracted, the number of first-time participants is very encouraging."

The programme is geared towards those who are not currently physically active, to novice runners and former athletes, though training schedules for more advanced runners are also available.

Challenge organisers are also encouraging firefighters and Police officers to take part, as physical fitness is a key component of their job.

Argus has partnered with Swan's Running Club, the Mid-Atlantic Athletic Club and the Walking Club of Bermuda to provide participants with comprehensive training schedules and group training opportunities.

Those who register for the Argus 400 Challenge are able to participate in the organisations' ongoing training events until May and are also encouraged to attend monthly 'power hour' sessions led by fitness trainer Yves Paul.

The Bermuda Day Half-Marathon Derby traces its roots back almost 100 years to June 1909, when a group of British officers in Somerset challenged their Bermudian workmates to a cross-country race. Today it is an annual event on Bermuda Day, a public holiday. The race starts on Cambridge Road in Somerset and finishes at Bernard Park in Pembroke.

* For more information on the Argus 400 Challenge visit www.argus.bm.