Two lucky participants in this year’s May 24 Marathon Derby will win draw prizes of $5,000 thanks to a donation from Island Construction.

In a bid to boost numbers, the construction firm has given $10,000 to the race organisers to be put towards the two draw prizes, with each winner expected to give $1,500 of their winnings to the charity of their choice.

The idea was the brainchild of Island Construction president Zane DeSilva.

“We have a long tradition of supporting local sporting activities and we are proud to add the Marathon Derby to our list,” he said.

The draw will take place the day after the Derby at the Victory Celebration to be held on Union Street.

Only those present at the celebration will be eligible for the $5,000 award.

Derby president Gina Tucker said: “We are thrilled to add Island Construction Services to the Bermuda Marathon Derby family. Zane DeSilva approached us with this fantastic idea to help increase runner participation and we gladly accepted. Not only will the financial incentive encourage new runners but it will also assist our charity fund-raising efforts in aid of Focus and Kandice Young, as each runner will donate $10 towards the 2007 derby charities.”

The registration deadline has been extended to Saturday May 5 while late registration ends Friday, May 18.

Registration forms are available at all CellularOne Stores.