Posted on Aug 26, 2010

August 26, 2010 | Halifax, N.S.  – With over 2,700 entries in 44 days producing one lucky winner, the Heart&Stroke Walkabout New York summer contest officially came to a close just before midnight on August 20th, 2010. “It was a huge success,” said Fran Dunn, Physical Activity Coordinator with the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia. “Our goal was to raise awareness about our signature walking program, Walkabout, and to send one lucky Nova Scotian off to explore New York – on foot. We’re really pleased with the results and are thankful that so many people participated,” she added.

The winning name was drawn by Fraser & Hoyt representatives at their office in Halifax.
Dunn said that she is also really pleased to have been the staff person chosen to deliver the good news to the contest winner – Wolfville resident Karen Slater-Padovani.

“It’s great to be able to call someone out of the blue and tell them that they have just won a free trip,” laughed Dunn. The contest winner, Slater-Padovani, accompanied by the guest of her choice, will be flown to New York City, provided with accommodations for three nights, and given the option to enjoy a walking tour of some of the City’s most amazing sights.  “Whether you are strolling through your backyard or exploring a new community, walking is a great way to take it all in and enjoy everything that surrounds you. We were really pleased to be able to include a walking tour in the contest package,” said Dunn.

“Thank you very much. I’m flummoxed at the moment. Let me go take a walk and gather my thoughts. When I’m walking is usually when I do my best thinking,” laughed an excited Karen. “I’m a huge advocate of the Walkabout program. I first borrowed a pedometer from my local library and enjoyed it so much, that I’ve purchased my own, as well as helped countless friends do the same.”

Launched in 2007, Heart&Stroke Walkabout has been focused on supporting Nova Scotians to walk more and, by doing so, gain the health, mental and social benefits associated with this form of activity.

“The benefits of walking are countless. It can help clear your mind, connect you with friends or support your in your physical health,” noted Dunn. “Through Walkabout, we have a website for everyone’s use and it’s filled with information, resources, and ways to help keep track of your steps. Everyone with access to a computer can visit our site at www.walkaboutns.ca and learn more about how they can become more active through walking.”

Heart&Stroke Walkabout™ is a comprehensive approach to increasing walking in the province, and is led by the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia. Some of its components include a website to track steps, log routes and walking groups, a pedometer lending program through libraries and C@P sites, and a workplace walking program. The program is supported by Pfizer, the Presenting Sponsor, Nova Scotia Department of Health Promotion and Protection, Pharmasave, Nova Scotia Department of Health, and Great West Life. For more information, visit www.walkaboutns.ca.

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Contact:
Kris Allen
Communications Coordinator
Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia
Phone: 423-7682 ext. 3328
Email: [email protected]

Categorized under contest, media release