This year will see the largest field take part in the relay races to be held in conjunction with the May 24 Half-Marathon.According to race organisers, entry numbers in this year’s various relay divisions have increased by nearly fifty percent from last year.“This year we have a larger amount of entries in the relays, there are over 300 runners,” said Trevor Cann, vice-president of the race. “The relay races are races within themselves and everyone seems to be enjoying them and we love it.“I think the relay races have become popular because not everyone wants to run 13.1 miles. But people seem to be more inclined and comfortable running shorter, variable distances while still being a part of the Half-Marathon, so the relay aspect has really taken on a life of its own.”The relays feature two categories Open Team and School Challenge and involves teams of four runners from various segments of the community.“Whoever decides they want to put together a relay team can sign up as a relay entry,” Cann said. “The relay teams are split up into four people and involve schools, clubs and football teams.”According to Cann, who is the son of late Half-Marathon Derby organiser Berwyn Cann, the concept of introducing a relay race to the spectacle was first considered several years ago.“About six years ago we were looking at innovative things to add to the race and this egg was hatched and it’s just really taken off since,” he added. “The relay aspect of the race has really taken flight and we expect that trend to continue for years to come.”At press time yesterday more than 80 teams had registered.* * * *This year’s race will see past Olympic and Commonwealth Games swimmer, Victor Ruberry, have the privilege of starting the race (9.00am) in Somerset.“Normally we bring in politicians to do the honour but this year we thought we would try something different,” Cann said. “Victor has represented Bermuda at the Olympics and Commonwealth Games so he’s certainly paid his dues and we just thought it would be a nice touch to give him this honour.”* * * *More than 80 runners have signed up for the Junior Heritage race which continues to grow in popularity.Last year’s male winner, Jermiah Steede, who covered the two-mile course in 11 minutes and 31 seconds, will defend his title.But injury will keep out Quaashie Douglas who was first female last year in 12.41.The juniors line up outside the Supermart on Front Street and will finish at Bernard Park.* * * *Seven-time Derby champion Debbie Butterfield, whose last victory came in 1987, will be back in the field tomorrow, running with her son Spencer, who still holds one of the Front Street Mile junior records.Her other son, triathlete Tyler who is on course to qualify for the London Olympics, won’t be competing but there are plenty more in the family who will.Debbie is the aunt of female favourite Ashley Estawinik who is married to Chris and is the daughter of Peggy Couper.* * * *There’ll be no free rides for the runners hoping to catch the ferry from Albouy’s Point to Somerset early tomorrow morning.This year there will be a charge of four dollars.In the past, hundreds have taken advantage of the crossing at no cost but it’s understood the Department of Marine and Ports have now imposed a fee.