Lynn’s Michael Derby tackles two challenges: fund-raising, longevity

It’s safe to say that when you bring up the great marathons in the world, one of the first that comes to many people’s minds is Boston.With its great history, challenging course and legendary champions, the Boston Marathon has tested the greatest endurance runners for over a century. That challenge is also what draws many of the country’s avid runners to Hopkinton for the start of that 26.2-mile trek to Boylston Street and the finish line in front of the Boston Public Library.One of those thousands of avid runners who will be on the line Monday is Lynn native Mike Derby, participating in his 19th consecutive Boston race.”It’s the grand daddy of all marathons,” Derby said. “Anyone who does this in the world knows that it’s the premiere race.”For Derby, taking to the ultimate challenge in the marathon discipline came out of sadness and remembrance for his sister, who died of liver cancer in 1988. Since then, Derby has run for the American Liver Foundation and it has just become a part of what he does.”One year after another, it’s something I do,” Derby said. “It’s kind of a dual combination now. Foremost is to raise money and the second goal now is to get to 25 in a row.”If Derby reaches that silver anniversary milestone, he will become a part of the BAA’s Hall of Fame, which recognizes runners who participate in 25 consecutive marathons.While participating in the race is something Derby enjoys, raising money for the foundation is something that means even more to him. And led by his wife Lisa, Derby’s support team has helped to bring in the donations.”Without it, it doesn’t work,” Derby said. “(Lisa) heads up that whole thing. You need someone encouraging you and for 19 years, she’s been there in one way or another. There’s a lot of things you have to do to prepare for a marathon and she supports it every time.”Derby will be sponsored this year by ENE Systems; Nickey’s Pizza; the Lazy Dog Sports Bar and JD’s Sports Bar. And despite the economy being in a downturn, people still have been donating to the cause.”Anything people can afford right now is great,” Derby said. “And if they can’t donate, their wishes of good luck are just as well.”Derby has gone through his training without missing time because of injuries and is set to tackle the race once again. With a couple of hopes thrown in for good measure.”I’m hoping for good running weather on Monday and to stay away from people who are sick,” Derby said, “because that’s the kiss of death.”