The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor kicks off its 8th annual Canalway Challenge on May 1. The free program invites people of all ages and abilities to set a personal mileage goal and walk, run, cycle, paddle, or roll along the NYS Canal System to achieve it, earning recognition and rewards.<\/p>\n
Participants can choose from a range of mileage options to suit their fitness ability\u2014including 15 miles, 90 miles, 180 miles, and 360 miles\u2014and have until October 31 to complete their goal. A 1st Mile Challenge is open to people with disabilities.<\/p>\n
All finishers will receive a certificate, mileage sticker, magnet, and commemorative pennant in the mail.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Canalway Challenge is fun, active, and full of exploration. Participants tell us how much they discover while logging miles\u2014from historic sites and beautiful scenery to regional foods and beverages and charming canal communities. Every mile delivers something special,\u201d said Bob Radliff, Executive Director of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.<\/p>\n
To date, Canalway Challenge participants from 41 U.S. states have logged 2.5 million miles and generated an estimated $6 million in economic impact along New York\u2019s canals and Canalway Trail.<\/p>\n
New York State Canal Corporation Director Ben Walsh said, \u201cThe weather is slowly but surely warming up, and the Canalway Challenge is the perfect motivator to get folks outside, moving, and enjoying the beautiful Canalway Corridor, all while finding the satisfaction of meeting a goal. I encourage everyone to take advantage \u2013 if only for the bragging rights!\u201d<\/p>\n
Registration is open to individuals, organizations, and teams. People can complete the Challenge in one big trip or many small ones.<\/p>\n