| Day Two - Avon 3-Day Walk |
Today
I started near the back of the pack, around 7:30 am. And so I was caught
in heavy walking traffic throughout Gaithersburg, with little chance to pass on
the sidewalks. I was extremely impressed by the trail etiquette of the
walkers - everyone stayed on the sidewalk, and most people were very patient in
waiting for a good opportunity to pass. In the photo, we are waiting
patiently for the light to change so we can cross at the intersection.
Each intersection has a Crew member to ensure that the walkers cross safely.
Pace
However, if you are a fast walker who doesn't want a crowd, do as I did on Day 1
and be one of the first people out of camp when they open the trail in the
morning. The crowd moves at a rate of only 25-minute miles or even
30-minute miles. If you start later, then don't complain, just go with the
flow.
Most people walk side by side with a friend. I had no friend with me and am used to walking solo, but decided that for the next Avon 3-Day Walk I would form a team and bring some friends along to walk and talk with.
Stretch!
Walkers take the advice to stretch 5 minutes of each hour with varying degrees
of diligence. At many walls and most rail fences, walkers quickly drop to
the side to do their stretches. Mats are provided at the Pit Stops for
this purpose also. The basic stretches are illustrated on the back of the
Walker Credentials we are required to wear around our necks throughout the walk
- so you have no excuse that you can't remember how to stretch.
Signs - Signs -
Everywhere Signs
I have been a trailmaster for 15 years now and I love signs. On the Avon
Walk, the directional signs are very good. Plus, there are huge numbers of
various caution signs. The "Stay Alert - Stay Alive" sign
reminds us that accidents can happen anywhere. I passed several casualties
who tripped and hurt themselves. I have a habit of tripping over my own
feet on smooth level pavement - and so I took care.
Traffic
is also warned about us - I loved the "Caution: Many People Walking"
signs.
Other signs warned us to cross only with the signals, to walk single file, etc.
The homemade signs to cheer
on other walkers, Burma-Shave type rhymes, and trivia questions kept us
entertained and enthused. 
Along
the way were designated cheering stations for families and friends to cheer on
their loved ones. It was great to see the support for the walkers and the
clever signs. One boy was dressed funny and had a sign, "Help, Mom -
Dad dressed me!"
The backs of other walkers also provided reading material. Many walkers had shirts made which told who they were walking for - breast cancer survivors and loved ones who were lost.
Next page > Day Two - Again Into the Woods
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Photos copyright (c) 2001, Wendy Bumgardner, licensed to About.com
