AARP West Virginia Puts Its Power Behind the Walk

Charleston Distance Walk Becomes AARP Power Walk

Source: AARP.org | July 5, 2006

Veteran walking enthusiasts and beginners alike will have a new opportunity to strut their stuff during the annual Charleston Sternwheel Regatta Festival on Saturday, September 2.

Known for a decade as the Charleston Distance Walk, the American Volkswalkers Association (AVA) event became the Power Walk last year when its start and finish line moved to the new Appalachian Power Park.  AARP West Virginia has been a sponsor for several years, but the 2006 walk will feature more involvement by AARP volunteers and will include new features. The 2006 event is named the AARP Power Walk.

Walkers will see new routes, and several prizes will be given away to those who cross the finish line.  Three 5K (3.1 miles) routes will be available, and walkers can walk one route, any two routes or all three routes for a total of 15K.  One route includes the famed and strenuous “Cemetery Hill,” taking walkers through Charleston’s Spring Hill Cemetery off Farnsworth Drive.  Those who tackle the cemetery route will receive a “I Survived Cemetery Hill” badge when they reach the crest of the hill.

Everyone who completes a 5K route will receive a special, dated, limited-edition 2006 AARP Power Walk pin.  All leftover pins will be destroyed, along with any leftover Cemetery Hill bades.

Those who register and pay the $10 fee will receive a pasta dinner the night before, the commemorative pin and lunch after the walk, along with the chance to win one of several prizes.  The walk is free to those who do not want dinner, lunch or a pin.  AVA members will receive credit.

To receive a registration form, call 304-727-2699, send an email, or go online.

The Power Walk is also sponsored by:

Appalachian Power Park
Greater Kanawha Valley Optimist Clubs
Tyler Mountain Water
Coca-Cola
Verizon
Charleston Riverfront Ramblers
Mountain State Wheelers Bicycle Club
Charleston Area Medical Center

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