![]() ![]() I had been thinking about running one marathon in my life and I finally decided to register for it. My first memory of the Blue Ridge marathon began in 2013. For many people the completion of this marathon is an obligation / duty that must be fulfilled. The challenge of Blue Ridge Marathon is the 7400 feet elevation as the runners have to run to the top of three mountains, Mill Mountain, Roanoke Mountain and the mountain that Peakwood Drive traverses. The race officially was not posted online but the determination and the love of the event encouraged people to continue, keeping the event alive and creating some great new memories. Marathon runners are even known to be helpful to one another.ĭespite the cancellation of this year’s race in the first hour due to a thunderstorm, some participants did not stop and continued running to the finish line. In addition to the financial benefit for Roanoke, it brings people together and creates an environment of unity and friendship.Ī marathon is unlike any other sports in that in lieu of hot competition (think soccer, football, basketball etc.) it brings patience and calmness to one’s mind as a runner by focusing on the finish line and enjoying the scenery. If you’re interested in sponsoring a remaining StoryWalk, please reach out to Susan Herndon-Powell at or call 54.The Blue Ridge Marathon in Roanoke has become a traditional event for many people from across the nation and is certainly one of the most interesting events that people travel to Roanoke to participate in. ![]() The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Vermont, and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. The first book for families to enjoy is “Cat’s Colors” by Airlie Anderson. Community partners such as these are bringing more families outside to enjoy our amazing parks and read fun books,” Herndon-Powell said.Ĭitizens are encouraged to visit these StoryWalks throughout the year during park hours, and the Department plans to update the books quarterly. ![]() ![]() “Thank you so much to RunAbout Sports for funding the first display and to Book City Roanoke for funding the second. Thanks to Book City Roanoke, folks can enjoy another exhibit in Washington Park in the next few months. “We could not have contributed without the support of our running community helping us through the most challenging circumstances-it’s great to see a permanent physical representation of what supporting your community can do.”īowersock’s rising-tides-lifts-all-ships mentality appears to be contagious as PLAY Roanoke has secured a sponsorship for their second StoryWalk. “We are thrilled to sponsor a community collaboration that blends so many healthy things: outdoor play, reading, socialization, and physical activity,” she said. To owner Ally Bowersock, this sponsorship seemed like a no-brainer. This first installment was made possible through a generous sponsorship from RunAbout Sports Roanoke. She’s partnered with Roanoke Public Libraries for the books to display, recruited staff to make the stands, and searched for sponsors to help fund these exhibits. Immediately sold on the idea, Herndon-Powell has since led the charge to bring them to local parks. They promote early literacy, encourage physical activity, and are free and accessible to all. These displays encourage kids and families to visit their local parks and read a story while outside. While looking for ways to encourage more folks to interact with nature, she came across StoryWalks. Of course things like leading paddling classes and camping trips is a big part of her job, but she also understands that sometimes outdoor recreation is simply being outside. Herndon-Powell has always been passionate about getting folks outside. Our goal is for at least one park in every corner of the city to house a display,” Susan Herndon-Powell, PLAY Roanoke Outdoor Programming Supervisor, said. “We’re so excited for the first permanent StoryWalk display to be unveiled at Belmont Park. This first of five was officially unveiled on this past Monday. StoryWalks are free, interactive exhibits in local parks and trails that encourage early literacy, healthy lifestyles, and family interactions through storytelling. But that’s just what you’ll encounter along the walking paths at Belmont Park. Things you expect to see at parks: playgrounds, greenspace, shelters.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |