The races may be over, but there’s still action at the track.
On Sunday, April 18, Bristol Motor Speedway will host the third annual Tri-Cities American Diabetes Association Walk, where a carnival atmosphere will replace the fast cars and Winnebagos.
The three-mile walk around the famous track is part of an event to raise awareness and funds for diabetes research, said Kenny Hawkins, sports director with WJHL-TV and co-chair of the event.
For Hawkins, the event means more than just a good time. In 1992, just five years after he graduated from ETSU with a degree in communications, he was diagnosed with type II diabetes.
After some encouragement from the Knoxville chapter of the American Diabetes Association, he decided to help kick-start the walk in the Tri-Cities three years ago. It’s now grown from a $19,000 fundraiser to a $150,000 one, said Hawkins.
However, the disease is still spreading faster than its funding, said Hawkins.
“The fact is, almost everyone you know is affected by diabetes,” said Hawkins.
“If you don’t have it in your family, then ask your co-workers – I bet they all know someone with diabetes.”
According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), over 18 million Americans have some form of diabetes – a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use the hormone, insulin. Because of this, diabetics are prone to health problems like heart disease and stroke.
While research hasn’t yet uncovered the cause for diabetes, it is believed that genetics plays a big part, as do super-sized diets of high-fat, low-nutrition foods and lack of exercise.
The walk begins at 2 p.m., but check-in starts just after noon. Volunteers will provide walkers with rest stops along the track, stocked with plenty of water, snack foods and other refreshments. Lunch is provided after the race.
Adults can enjoy the many of freebies and health fair booths. Children’s activities include a moon jump, face painting and free balloons.
Volunteers and walkers are still needed. For more information, call Kathy Smith in Legal Affairs at 439-8550.

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