Keen walkers invited to Olympic-style race walk tomorrow (From Enfield Independent)

Keen walkers invited to Olympic-style race walk in Queen Elizabeth II Stadium tomorrow

11:02am Monday 6th August 2012 in News By Hermione Wright

Keen walkers will have a chance tomorrow to get involved in an Olympic-style event in the Queen Elizabeth II Stadium.

A race walk, organised by Enfield Race Walking League, will be held in the stadium in Donkey Lane to allow people of all walking abilities to play a part in the Olympic games.

Race walking, which is an athletic track and field Olympic event, is different to running because one foot must be in contact with the ground at all times.

In Enfield, two routes, either three or five-miles-long, are available to walkers. 

The Mayor of Enfield Councillor Kate Anolue will open the walk, which is due to start at 1pm.

John Hall, chairman of friends of Enfield Playing Fields who will attend tomorrow’s event, said: “We will get a lot of overseas people and British people and it will give them a chance to say they have walked in London during the Olympics.

“When you look at it, walking is about the best thing for fitness and health. Most people are regular walkers so will be brisk, but many are ordinary walkers. It is a great form of exercise.”

A total of 65 people have signed up so far, and places are still available for people to turn up on the day. Tickets cost £6.