(09/05/11) For those who couldn't get up north, there was a mini-Mackinac Bridge Labor Day walk in Lapeer County. Marathon Township officials worked together to give residents a chance to get some exercise and have fun at the same time.
The Mackinac Bridge is five miles long, which is the distance from Columbiaville and Otter Lake. For the second year, organizers invited people to stroll the Southern Links Trailway between the two towns. Walkers could even pass over a replica of Mighty Mac.
"We wanted to design it after the Mackinac walk. So that's why we call it the Mighty Mac in Marathon," Sandi Glensenkamp, Marathon Township treasurer said.
Those in front set a fast pace, but further back in the pack they weren't walking quite so vigorously. Although it was cloudy and a little chilly, the walkers didn't seem to mind.
"It's a nice place to get away from the traffic and be able to get some good exercise," remarked State Rep. Kevin Daley, (R) Lum.
The walk also increases awareness of the trail which runs from Columbiaville to Millington.
"It's Labor Day. You should walk a bridge Labor Day," Barb Haas of Mayville exclaimed. "This is exciting. Last year there were just a few people so it's very exciting to see a good turn out this year."
Perhaps 150 walked the trail this year. At the end of the line in Otter Lake, walkers were handed certificates and children received Mighty Mac medals. Free rides back to Columbiaville were available.
"The Sheriff's Department has two vans and they will transport them back and forth," said Glesenkamp.
In Columbiaville, there were Southern Links Trailway t-shirts for sale, along with pasties. They also held a fudge tasting contest.
While the walkers didn't get the thrill of passing over the Straits of Mackinac, they said they did have a great time close to home.
