UWindsor team to take on 100-km charity hike

Running doesn’t necessarily prepare you for the rigours of walking, says Richard Hayes.

An experienced marathon runner, he is preparing for a different challenge as part of a team of four who will be participating in a 100-kilometre hike along trails south of Georgian Bay over 48 hours, July 13 to 15.

“It’s not the distance alone” that poses the problem, Hayes says. “It’s being awake and on your feet all that time.”

In addition to Hayes, a learning strategist in Student Disability Services, the team includes Chris Busch, assistant director of the Centre for Executive Education; Richard Taylor, director of legal services; and Toronto-based personal fitness trainer Barb Gormley: “Barbie and the Barbarians.”

Their outing is part of Oxfam Trailwalkers, a fundraiser for the international development organization. Proceeds will benefit its development and advocacy programs, as well as emergency support during humanitarian crises and natural disasters.

“We are looking for sponsors to help us support Oxfam in its invaluable work to tackle the root causes of poverty,” says Busch. “Together, we can help people to create self-reliant and sustainable communities in developing countries around the world.”

He calls the effort a perfect match to the University’s strategic goal of promoting international engagement.

“That does not just mean attracting students from around the world to our campus,” he says. “It also encompasses how our students, faculty and staff can make an impact internationally.”

Taylor says he and his teammates have been training hard.

“We know we’ll all be in a world of hurt, but that comes with the territory,” he says. “My sincere hope is that the campus community will support us and help us reach our target of $2,500 in pledges.”

He invites financial donations through Oxfam’s online contribution form.

The team will keep followers up-to-date before and during the event by posting information and photos on Facebook. Find the team’s Facebook page here.

Oxfam Trailwalker route map

The 2012 Trailwalker Canada route starts near Wasaga Beach, then wends its 100-km way along rural roads and trails to finish outside Midland.