Nine-time champion Kavin Smith will race in the 100th edition of the May 24 Marathon Derby on Monday in an attempt to defend his Masters title.

But rather than focusing on another overall triumph, he will be more concerned about promoting awareness of the handicapped in Bermuda in his role as a representative of the charity, Committee of 25.

Regarded as one of the Island's greatest road runners in the modern era, virtually uncatchable during his peak years, Smith says there's now a bigger goal in his life – to raise the public's awareness of those less fortunate.

"I'm running for the Committee of 25, so regardless of the fact that a lot of runners will be out, there are people out there who are not a privileged as you or I," said Smith.

"They haven't had the luxury of running or participating so I don't want to by any means take away from why I am really running, which is to let people know about their situations and ask for assistance.

"This is my second year doing this in order to raise funds for what in my opinion is one of the more needy causes.

"I am hoping that people will take some time out and give a dollar or whatever they wish to donate to the Committee in their constant endeavours of helping others and giving of themselves.

"Many people give endless time to those less fortunate.

"This is my main goal for the day."

The multiple champion will be looking to continue his winning ways in the event and take home the Masters title for the second year running.

And although having had little time to prepare for the race due to his involvement in training a younger runner, Smith remains confident that he will successfully defend his title although the thought of making a sustained challenge for the overall crown hasn't crossed his mind.

"I am now in the Masters (over 40) category so I can enjoy it a bit more. I'm not trying to strive and win it but I do have an aim to win the Masters category. That's pretty much my aim.

"The whole idea of the day is not for the runners per say, but more for the spectators.

"For us it is more of a mental thing to know that everyone is out because the more casual runners will get to run around and chat and enjoy the day.

"But I have an aim which is to have fun. It will be great to know and see that everyone is out to run on a special occasion.

"Whatever happens on the day happens on the day, you can't train for that type of stuff.

"I am helping a young guy in his preparations so I haven't thought about if I am bold enough to make a run at the title this year."

Smith's last Derby triumph was in 2003.

His first was in 1993 to begin a streak which saw him lead the way eight times from 1995 to 2003, a run interrupted only once when Tracy Wright claimed the title in 1998.

¦ In yesterday's Royal Gazette it was stated that three-time winner Terrance Armstrong also won in 2007. In fact, Larry Marshall was the champion that year. We apologise for the error.