Buddy Walk ends with online concert

On Sunday, the Down Syndrome Family Network (DSFN) will host an online concert to mark the end of its virtual 5K and walk which has been ongoing since October 5.

Unable to host its traditional annual Buddy Walk, due to covid19, the virtual athletic challenge was the network’s way of hosting the walk without a physical event.

The network’s chairperson of events and sponsorship, Lisa Ghany, said it was important for the DSFN to hold this year’s event innovatively and safely.

“We want to continue to raise awareness for kids with disabilities and celebrate what they can do. We (as a society) often tend to focus on what they can’t do,” said Lisa Ghany.

Sunday’s event will also mark the end of Down Syndrome Awareness Month which is commemorated annually in October.

Ghany said there is still time for those interested in partaking in the virtual 5K and walk.

Hosted in partnership with local virtual race app Bafasports, people can go the app’s website, Bafasports.com, until Saturday to register and complete the virtual 5K and walk.

Registration costs $99 and participants will have the choice between a 1K or 5K walk or run.

Upon registration, participants will receive instructions on how to record the time and distance of their walk or run which they can do anywhere.

“It’s an awareness event and not just for elite athletes. It’s for everyone to come out and support the initiative.”

All participants will receive a medal which can be collected at any of Bafasports offices located across TT.

Prizes will also be awarded for the most creative running gear, the first participant with Down Syndrome to finish the virtual walk/run, the first overall participant to finish, the youngest participant to finish, the oldest participant to finish and the participant with the most creative mask.

While registration is needed to participate in the virtual 5K and walk, everyone can to join in on the DSFN’s online concert on Sunday at 5 pm.

“At the end of the walk in the years gone by, we’d usually have a concert. This year, because of covid19, we have taken it onto a virtual platform. Everything is pre-recorded and we’ll have a virtual watch party,” said Ghany.

Hosted by Nikki Crosby and DJ Chris, the online concert will feature performances by Nailah Blackman, Farmer Nappy, John Thomas, Nalini Akal, Jason Fridge Seecharan and Kevon Carter.

The Prime Minister’s wife Sharon Rowley and Education Minister Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly will also make appearances during the event.

Now in its ninth year, Ghany said the annual Buddy Walk hosted by the DSFN aims to continue educating society about people with Down Syndrome and ensuring their visibility.

For more info about the Down Syndrome Family Network, or the virtual 5K and walk, visit the network’s Facebook page.