What’s a Volkswalk? It’s a non-competitive walk for fun, fitness and friendship. Started in Germany in the 1960’s Volkssport, or “people’s sport” events (usually a walk, sometimes a bicycle ride or swim), are for everyone–young and old, fit and not-so-fit. The Saguaro Sun Striders Volkssport Club, based in Surprise and affiliated with the American Volkssport Association (AVA), has worked with city officials to sanction 5K and 10K walk routes in Holbrook. Participants can walk for free, but Volkssporters usually purchase AVA record books, and walk for “credit” to keep track of when and where they walked, and the distance to track their progress. When a book is filled, it is mailed to AVA headquarters in Texas. For no additional cost, walkers then receive a pin, patch and certificate to acknowledge their accomplishment. Volkssport and travel make a perfect combination. Combine Volkssport with your travels, either business or pleasure, as events are available all over the USA and around the world. There is no time limit to complete a book and they are good for use worldwide. There are two types of events: the traditional events that are held only on a specified day and the year round events, which are available most days of the year. Traditional events are hosted by a club and members staff a registration table. Year round events are self-service, so you can find an event with a route you want to walk, go to the start location, ask for the walk box and after you have registered, you are on your way. The kickoff for this year round event will be held on Saturday, April 25, at the historic Navajo County Courthouse and Museum located at 100 E. Arizona St. in Holbrook. Registration will take place at 9:30 a.m., followed by the walk at 10 a.m. Members of the Saguaro Sun Striders, as well as city officials, will be there to get things started. Participants can walk for free or pay a small fee for the stamp in their books. New walker packets will be available for $5 and include, among other things, an event book, a distance book and coupons for three free Volkssport events.