Thousands take PineHill Walk!

The island’s largest one-day participatory event was declared a success by organizers at the end of the 17th annual Pinehill Fun walk. This year, over 5000 participants took over the island’s main highway as they walked at varying speeds from the Vigie Playing Field to Pigeon Island (ten miles) in smelting temperatures. Such dedication is nothing new to this health awareness event hosted by PineHill. This year things took a slightly different approach, so as to maintain a fair and competitive element to the fitness walk. The organizers introduced a competitive walkers section for participants with something to prove.

The competing walkers were checked at the start of the walk, as well as along the route, to ensure they completed the task. This was implemented this year to reward with medals persons who completed the entire route. The big winners this year included Jason Sayersm, Nevil Dupre and Julian Toussaint.

With the theme “Be a part of the movement,” this year’s PineHill Fun walk delivered all participants had hoped for. It attracted the particularly fit and trim, moms and dads as well as the not so able bodied. Even the toddlers had a good time. Through their marketing campaign the organizers encouraged participants to walk with their friends and families, especially their children. Especially rewarding was the awarding of prizes to the physically challenged on the walk. Krishna Satney won that category. The youngest participant also received a medal.

No surprise that walkers welcomed the many PineHill juices on hand. Mr. Walker, the mascot, appeared in purple, pink, red, orange, yellow and green. Though the walk is primarily geared towards promoting a health and an active lifestyle, there was also its charity side. The organizers will make a contribution to the World Pediatric Project to help children in need of life changing surgeries.

At the end of the walk participants were treated to a light breakfast and a health, wellness and fitness fair sponsored by health associations, nutritionists, local spas and gyms.