A mental health advocate and three-time Olympian will serve as the honorary starter for a weekend of running events.

Suzy Favor Hamilton will also be the guest speaker for the Bermuda Triangle Challenge taking place in January.

Ms Hamilton said: “I sincerely look forward to travelling to Bermuda to champion the 2020 Bermuda Triangle Challenge and I am genuinely interested in sharing my story with the residents and guests of Bermuda.”

The American middle distance runner detailed her struggles with bipolar disorder in Fast Girl — A Life Spent Running From Madness published in 2015.

Ms Hamilton today works as a life coach, yoga instructor and mental health advocate.

She said: “It’s therapeutic to share my story and it’s my hope that it inspires others to do the same and to become their best selves.

“Sharing has sometimes been painful, but at the same time I know it has been meaningful to so many others who struggle with life’s challenges.”

Freddie Evans, the chairman of the Triangle Challenge, said that the event was honoured to have Ms Hamilton involved.

He added: “She is an engaging motivational speaker who presents the highs and lows of her life story in a relaxed, approachable, honest and open manner, which we believe will be especially meaningful for those who face their own struggles and challenges in life.”

Hazel Clark, the sports marketing director of the Bermuda Tourism Authority and herself a former three-time US Olympian, described Ms Hamilton as a “fierce competitor” and a running “legend”. She added: “Her drive, competitiveness and accomplishments inspired each of us to work harder and strive towards continuous improvement.

“We look forward to welcoming her to Bermuda to share her accomplishments, as well as the challenges she has faced in life and how she has continually persevered to overcome those challenges.”

The three-day running event begins on January 17 with the Butterfield Front Street Mile.

The BF&M 10k Walk & Run will be held on January 18. The full and half marathon events will be held on January 19.

More information of the events can be found at bermudaraceweekend.com.