LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE) – Fitness is the focus during the Mayor’s Annual Hike, Bike and Paddle. The annual gathering is typically all three events, but due to rising river levels and challenging currents, the paddle portion was canceled.
Losing one event on the schedule didn’t stop hundreds of people from working on their health and wellness.
Hundreds of bikers take a guided ride through downtown Louisville.
“I was a garbage man for the city of Louisville 30 years and I retired 5 years ago. I just stay active,” said Willam Hickman.
You may not believe it, but Willam Hickman is 70 years old. His advice to others is to stay active not matter what. He’s participated in the Hike Bike and Paddle for 15 years.
The non-bikers took a four-mile walk beginning at the Great Lawn and following the Ohio River east toward RiverPark Place, with multiple turnaround points along the route. The full route crosses the Big Four Bridge into Indiana and returns.
In addition to hiking and biking – people could enjoy other activities like yoga, step aerobics, and Zumba. The goal was keep people’s body moving and having fun.
“We need to be grateful that we have the ability to breathe and move,” Nika Dillingham explained. “If you can just lift you hands, or stomp your feet, you can walk. You can sit in your chair and walk. Whatever you can do just stay healthy and keep moving. Your life will be better I promise.”
Dillingham is the owner of Dance and Work by Nika. She led the crowd through a fitness dance exercise during this year’s event. This was her second time being part of the Hike, Bike and Paddle.
Health and wellness-focused vendors were also there to help people start or maintain their fitness journeys. The brain injury alliance handed out 300 helmets to bikers and made sure that they were properly fitted and secure.
The Mayor’s hike bike and paddle is a free, family friendly event, that welcomes the community to waterfront park for a morning focused on creating healthy lifestyles.
“I love bringing people together, particularly when we are doing things that are good for ourselves and for the community,” Mayor Craig Greenberg said. “It’s just a wonderful way to spend the holiday.”
This is the 22nd year for the Mayor’s Hike, Bike and Paddle overall, and Mayor Greenberg’s fourth time being a part of the event.
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