Thousands flooded the Great Lawn on Labor Day to take part in the 18th Mayor’s Healthy Hometown Subway Fresh Fit Hike, Bike, and Paddle, a popular Louisville tradition.
Cyclists of all ages and levels of experience took part in a 15-mile bike ride from downtown Louisville to Shawnee Park and back. In addition to the biking, walkers took a three-mile hike all the way down Main Street to the Belvedere. Paddlers were able to take their boats to the Ohio River and paddle 4 miles through the McAlpine Locks and Dam to New Albany.
Several current and former Manual students also showed up to the event, including Shea Dobson (10), Andrew Livera (11), Sierra Zwenger (11), Delayna Shulak (11), and Ana Cervera (2013 graduate).
“It’s more organized than a lot of the other races I’ve been to,” said Dobson, who did the 10K race as part of his second Hike and Bike. “They know what they’re doing ahead of time. One race I was at they changed the starting line ten minutes before the race started.”
The event began 11 years ago as a way to promote healthy lifestyles in Louisville. Additional activities included yoga, Tai Chi, an obstacle course, and Zumba, which all took place on the Great Lawn.
“We’re looking for anyway that people can get active,” said Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer. “Staying fit is a big deal obviously for quality of life and longevity. Also to battle obesity, which is an epidemic throughout the country and in Louisville as well. You don’t have to be a world-class athlete to get out and exercise. You can just come and take a nice walk or try Tai Chi or yoga.”
Fischer participated in yoga and Tai Chi at the event, as well as both the biking and paddling portion.
