The Lindo’s to Lindo’s road race, the popular walk and fundraiser for the Bermuda Diabetes Association, will take place on Sunday, March 9 with the theme “These Feet are Made for Walking”.

The competitive 10k run, four-mile competitive walk and four-mile fun run/walk costs $35 to enter. Participants will start their route at Lindo’s Family Foods in Warwick at 8:30am before making their way to Lindo’s Market Devonshire.

The event, which raised $26,000 in its 25th anniversary last year, is the BDA’s biggest annual fundraiser.

“This year’s theme is a gentle reminder to the public to walk, or run, whenever possible,” a Bermuda Diabetes Association spokesman said.

“Studies have found huge benefits to this, with the Diabetes Prevention Programme having demonstrated that including a minimum of 150 minutes of physical activity, such as walking, can significantly decrease the risk of developing diabetes.

“The charity has its work cut out for itself with an estimated 13 per cent of the population suffering from diabetes, although this 2014 number is expected to have risen.

“Additionally, the BDA estimates that one in three Bermudians suffer from prediabetes and are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes within five years. What’s more, as many as eight out of nine of these prediabetes sufferers may be unaware of their condition during the time when it’s still possible to prevent it developing.”

Zach Moniz, Lindo’s Family Foods Manager, is delighted that his company is again backing a great cause.

“We are honoured that this event not only celebrates community spirit but also emphasises the life-changing benefits of walking or jogging,” he said. “It’s such a simple, yet powerful way to improve your health and mood.

“Together, we can inspire healthier lifestyles and provide essential resources to those affected by diabetes. We encourage everyone to take part and help us make strides towards a healthier Bermuda.”

Lori Rockhead, executive director of the Bermuda Diabetes Association, is also keen to highlight the importance of the event.

“We deeply appreciate the support from Lindo’s and our community, which has been instrumental in the success and longevity of the Lindo’s to Lindo’s,” she said.

“This event not only unites us in our shared commitment to health but also ensures that the Bermuda Diabetes Association can continue to provide vital care and education to those affected by diabetes. We encourage everyone to come and make the most of the opportunity to walk.”

Volunteers for the Lindo’s to Lindo’s event are still being sought and each volunteer can choose an hour-long time slot and whether they wish to be a road marshal or man a water stop.

Funds raised will go towards the charity’s vital work in educating the community about the disease, treatment and prevention as well as to its Client Assistance Programme (CAP).

Number pick-up will take place on Saturday, March 8, from 8.30am to 12:30pm at the Jack King Building in the Botanical Gardens. The first 1,000 participants to collect their number will receive a goodie bag.

Prizes, including gift vouchers to Lindo’s Group of Stores, will be given for the overall fastest three men and women in the competitive run along with the fastest two from each of the following age groups: Junior (12 to 20), Open (20 to 29),Masters (40 to 49),Senior Master (50 to 59), Veteran (60 to 69),Experienced Veteran (70 to 79), Legends (80+)

The fastest two competitive walkers (male and female) will also receive prizes.

The Lindo’s to Lindo’s represents the partnership between Lindo’s, Island Health Services and the BDA. The road event is organised by the Mid Atlantic Athletic Club, sanctioned by Bermuda National Athletics Association. The event is further supported by Barritt’s, BGA, Bermuda Import & Export Co, Butterfield & Vallis and Europa Imports. Parking at the beginning of the event is kindly provided by Warwick Academy.

To register for the event, or to find out more information, the public can visit https://runsignup.com/Race/BM/Warwick/LindostoLindos.