Released on June 4, 2014
For the third year in a row, the Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed the first Wednesday in June “Walk and Roll” day across the province.“Walk and Roll” day encourages citizens to get out and be active in ways that steer clear of automotive transportation. A concept formed eight years ago by Yorkton Regional High School staff and students, the day is sparking a province-wide trend that is benefiting citizens across Saskatchewan.
“A few years ago, some of our staff noticed that our school parking lot was always full, overflowing with cars, trucks, old beaters, you name it,” Physical Education teacher and Student Representative Council Co-ordinator Roby Sharpe said. “To encourage physical activity, some of the staff and I decided to start walking or biking to school. Before we knew it, our students were doing the same. We couldn’t be happier with the way this concept is catching on.”
And catching on it is. Although the idea of “Walk and Roll” day originated at Yorkton Regional High School, the concept has spread to communities across the province. Participation has been reported in various schools within the Good Spirit School Division, as well as in more distant communities such as Weyburn, Regina and as far north as Creighton.
“Healthy living is important to our government and we are proud to support 'Walk and Roll' day as it continues to gain momentum throughout the province,” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Kevin Doherty said. “The remarkable growth we are experiencing here in Saskatchewan has allowed us to invest in things that support a healthy lifestyle, things such as the Active Families Benefit Program and the Community Rink Affordability Grant. I congratulate Yorkton Regional High School for supporting physical activity within our communities and encourage everyone to take part in this beneficial day.”
In an effort to further encourage physical activity, Yorkton Regional High School wants to proclaim the day nationwide. Earlier this year, staff and students sent a proclamation to Ottawa asking that the day be enacted from coast to coast. Although this request has yet to be accepted, the school is hopeful and remains eager to see the day continue to spread within the province.
“We’re very pleased to continue with the tradition of 'Walk and Roll' day,” Yorkton Regional High School Principal Mike Haczkewicz said. “It’s a fantastic way for our school to encourage physical activity in our youth and our communities. Finding a healthy way to get to school for one day a year is the catalyst that some may need to get active on a regular basis.”
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For more information, contact:
Chelsea Coupal
Parks, Culture and Sport
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5781
Email: chelsea.coupal@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-527-8152