Child Abuse Prevention Walk shaping up for next weekend

by Geoff Fox

In 2011, the first Walk to End Child Abuse kicked off in Joseph Hancock Park.

This year’s walk, scheduled for next Saturday, April 28, will be held at Widmeyer Park in Hancock to accommodate more participants and events.

Events will include a 5K Run and a two-mile walk along the Western Maryland Rail Trail, a youth bike-a-thon in Widmeyer Park and an adult bike-a-thon along the Rail Trail.

Races in park and on trail
Runners will begin the 5K run at 9 a.m. in Widmeyer Park and head to the Rail Trail. The course will take runners west on the Rail Trail.

Walkers will also start out in Widmeyer Park and head to the Rail Trail at 10 a.m. Walkers will head east on the Rail Trail.

Both the adult and children’s bike-a-thons will begin at 11 a.m. The youth will make one loop around Widmeyer Park and end at the library. Adults will head to the Rail Trail and head west for their desired distance, said organizers.

According to Police Chief T.J. Buskirk, there will be some slight road closures to allow the participants to get to the Rail Trail.

Fire police will also be stationed along the way to direct participants with directions.
An award presentation will be held at noon at Widmeyer Park.

Many events
Organizers said there will be many events going on in Widmeyer Park on April 28.

Participants will see Child Abuse Awareness posters from local students, food concessions, “Monkey Joe” giving out treats, a moon bounce, face painting, raffles, and cake auctions held through out the day as well.

Vendors will be stationed in the park with free giveaways, activities and relevant literature. Bikers Against Child Abuse will be present as well with their motorcycles for children to sit on and take pictures.