SAN ANTONIO – Walkers from over 20 different countries participated in the Texas Trail Roundup over the weekend.
- Walks ranged from 5 to 42 kilometers
- Routes highlighted historical places in San Antonio
The walk fest featured noncompetitive walks each ranging from five to 42 kilometers.
“We’re here today to celebrate international friendships and promote health and wellness,” CEO and Executive Director of AVA: America’s Walking Club, Henry Rosales said.
This is the first year the Texas Trail Roundup has met criteria to be sanctioned by the International Marching League, attracting people who boasted flags from the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Japan and more.
Linda Thys and her husband came from Belgium and landed in San Antonio for the first time ever because of the walk.
“I like San Antonio. It’s a mix of old town and new town,” said Thys, who’s been doing international walking for over 10 years and has been to nearly 37 events.
An International Walking Passport which belongs to Texas Trail Roundup participant Linda Thys from Belgium (Spectrum News)
Walkers got to experience major parts of the city, as their routes covered the River Walk, the missions, the Pearl, the Japanese Tea Garden and more.
At the end, walkers received a stamp in their “walking passport”, medals, and other keepsakes to remember their journey.
“You don’t see a culture, you don’t see a city, a nation by driving through it, you see it by walking, you see it by meeting people and that’s what we’re doing here,” President of AVA: American’s Walking Club, David Bonewitz said.
