As we enter into the “spooky season” it is once again time for Walktober on Winthrop University’s campus. Composed of nine sessions, Walktober takes students and faculty on foot through the areas around Winthrop’s main campus.
The first session was Thursday, Oct. 1 with participants completing a one and a half mile journey. Increasing the distance a half mile each week, the final session will be a three and a half mile route around Fountain Park on Thursday, Oct. 29.
This is the fourth year of Walktober, but only the second year that students have been allowed to participate.
“We really increased our numbers adding students to be a part of it, which has been really nice,” Laura Davis, Coordinator of Recreational Services and the West Center, said.
Fewer people on campus due to COVID-19 has not led to fewer participants. The second session on Oct. 6 welcomed approximately 23 walkers. More students have joined in the exercise this year than last, but on average it is still 50-50 in regard to the number of faculty and student participants.
“I think maybe word has spread. It’s been really nice to see some familiar faces of students from last year who have brought friends to do it this year,” Davis said.
Furry friends are welcome as well, as West Center retiree members Bob and Carolina Hasselle joined in on the fun with their pup Elvis.
Each semester the West Center is required to host at least one incentive program. Each fall the department hosts Walktober, and then an event in the spring changes yearly. The 2020 spring event was scheduled for April, so it was cancelled when the campus shut down, but the Winthrop community has the chance to participate once again in the spring of 2021.
“We’re still going to repeat the one we did last year. It will include some walking in it, but spring is always kind of iffy with the weather and rain,” Davis said. “Hopefully the weather is good.”
When the weather threatens the outdoor walking events, everyone usually moves into the West Center track. However, due to COVID-19 regulations the track cannot hold that many people at a single time.
With Walktober generating a decent-sized crowd each year, there is potential for a walking club at Winthrop, but as of now there is only the newly charted running club.
The remaining walks are:
Oct. 15 – Glencairn Garden Route, 2.5 miles
Oct. 20 & Oct. 22 – Winthrop Lake Route, 3 miles
Oct. 27 & Oct. 29 – Fountain Park Route, 3.5 miles
Those interested in joining can register and sign the short waiver on the WU Rec App or go to @wu_rec on Instagram for more information.
Photo by Jamia Johnson
