The Bermuda Day Half Marathon Derby is hoping to raise $100,000 in aid of local charities.

The effort is part of celebrations in honour of the derby's 100th anniversary this May.

In order to meet the $100,000 fundraising target, the derby requires a minimum of 1,000 competitors on May 25 and an additional 250 entrants in a 5K family fun run on Saturday, May 23.

Each participant will need to raise/donate $100 to the derby charities.

Derby president Gina Tucker stated, "We are ecstatic to launch the 100th anniversary celebration activities. 2009 represents 100 years of athleticism, endurance and celebration of the Bermudian spirit. The celebration is particularly special because 2009 also represents Bermuda's 400th anniversary."

She added: "Our target to raise $100,000 is bold but attainable. We encourage all Bermudians to support us in any way they can as we endeavor to give back to a community that has given so much to us. With the support of Appleby, our title sponsor, ING and other supporting sponsors, we look forward to a successful weekend of events."

Charities that stand to benefit are Greenrock, P.A.L.S., Age Concern (Bermuda), The Women's Resource Centre, Youth Net, Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Bermuda, The Sunshine League, The Family Centre, Child's Wish, Friends of Hope Academy, and the president's pick, Camp Honey-Bee.

Participants who raise $1,000 will be eligible to win prizes.

A relay will be introduced as a component of the 13.1-mile race this year, as a means of encouraging those who are unwilling to run the full distance to participate.

For more information visit www.bermudamarathon.bm