For the City Times

Walkers from throughout Wisconsin, along with their friends, family and relatives from around the state and across the country are gearing up for the 12th annual Walk Wisconsin, the Midwest’s premier walking event, taking place on Sat., June 4.

Participants can choose from four events; the full (26.2 miles), ¾ (19.6 miles), ½ (13.1 miles) or ¼ (6.5 mile) marathon events, all along the Green Circle Trail in Portage County.  Training schedules and registration forms are available on the Walk Wisconsin web site at walkwisconsin.com.

Look for a rolling start for the full 26.2 marathon where walkers will start from Pfiffner Pioneer Park band shell from 7:00 – 7:30 AM.

A 2.62 and 1.31 mile Kid’s Walk Wisconsin is also scheduled for Sat., June 6 at Pfiffner Pioneer Park in Stevens Point. Check out the web site for registration information.

Sponsors include Ministry Health Care, the Stevens Point Journal, Delta Dental of Wisconsin, First Law Group, the Stevens Point Area Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, Spectra Print and numerous other sponsors believe that in training for a distance walk, participants become “positively addicted” to this simple, inexpensive and extremely beneficial form of exercise.

“Walking is an exercise that can be enjoyed by most ages and ability levels,” said John Jury, Walk Wisconsin committee member.  “It is a great, active way for families and friends to spend quality time together, while improving their health.”

Although it’s not a race, Walk Wisconsin is organized much like a regular running marathon. Those involved receive a commemorative T-shirt, sports sack, comfort and nutrition stops along the way, a finish line celebration and medallion, plus Portage County hospitality all day long.

For Walk Wisconsin information call (715) 344-2556, stop by the Stevens Point Convention and Visitor’s Bureau or go to walkwisconsin.com.