We are part of a worldwide network of similar clubs, all of whom host and take part in volkssporting events. "Volkssport" means people's sport. There are four main sports - walking, biking, swimming and cross country skiing. Walks, or volksmarches, are the most popular type of event.

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What is a Volksmarch?

A Volksmarch is an organized hike, or walk, which usually covers a distance of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). The host club marks the trail and provides water at the checkpoints. People of all ages take part, as it is not a contest of speed or endurance. Participants go at their own speed, and may begin anytime within the stated registration period (usually 4 or 5 hours). Everyone must complete the trail before the stated finish time.

Each paying participant receives a special award as a memento of their walk, but only after completing the entire course. The awards are usually a commemorative medal, sun catcher, mug, plate, pin or patch designed especially for the event. At registration walkers receive a card which is validated at the checkpoints along the trail. The card is turned in at the end of the walk in exchange for the award and to keep an accurate count of the walkers.

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Does it cost money?

Not necessarily. Any person may walk absolutely free if they don't want to the award, but they still must register, carry a card and return the card at the end of the walk. Than is how the host club knows how many people are on the trail.

For the award, the cost is usually about $5.00 if you register in advance and $6.00 if you register on the day of the event.

For people who don't collect awards but do keep IVV record books, there is a $2.00 charge for each event to get the books stamped at the end of the walk. The event book and distance book are $5.00 each to purchase.

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Do I have to be a member?

You don't have to join the Rovers to go on our walks, but membership has several benefits. We send out our award winning newsletter every other month which has information about our upcoming club events as well as other clubs in the region.

By becoming a member and attending the monthly meetings, you can have a say in picking locations for future walks, planning the trail, designing the award and meeting people with similar interests. Do you have a favorite spot which you think is perfect for a walk? Join the Rovers and turn you ideas into reality!

Come walk with us! Membership is inexpensive, just $8.00 per household. You receive a newsletter and additional mailings regarding upcoming events. To join send a check for $8.00 to:

Susquehanna Rovers Volksmarch Club
3848 Green Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110-1543

Remember to include your name, address and phone number as well as the names of others in the family. Also let us know if you are interested in helping at events, planning events, or holding office.

Our meetings are held at 6:30 PM on the last Wednesday of the month at the Colonial Park branch of the Dauphin County Library.

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Where does the money go?

The Susquehanna Rovers are strictly non-profit. We're into walking for the fun of it, not as a business. We keep enough money in the treasury to pay expenses for the next walk. When we have more money in our treasury, we donate the excess to charitable caused determined by membership vote.

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What are the AVA and IVV?

The Susquehanna Rovers are part of the American Volkssport Association (AVA) and the International Federation of Popular Sports (IVV - International Volkssport Verband). There are over 600 clubs in the USA and hundreds more in many other countries.

Volksmarching as an organized sport began in Germany in the 1960's and in the USA in 1976, brought home by returning military people. Since 1976, the sport has spsread across the USA.

The IVV maintains a system of record keeping and periodic achievement awards for regular volkssport participants. Each walker, if they wish, may keep official IVV records books of events and distance. At the end of an event, the books are stamped to give the person credit for the event and distance. When the book is full, it is snet to the national headquaeters of AVA and a certificate, patch and pin are sent. The AVA does have an 800 number that can be used to obtain information:

1-800-830-WALK

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Do the Rovers support environmental issues?

The Susquehanna Rovers Volksmarch Club promotes walking as an activity in which the entire family can participate and gain an appreciation of the outdoors as well as the benefits of aerobic exercise. We have an interest in environmental issues and a commitment to preserving natural areas. We are also committed to leaving our event locations clear\ner than when we arrived. Walking has gained popularity as a sport simple because it is something everyone can do. It brings you in touch with your surroundings in an immediate way which you cannot experience by driving your car. As the number of walkers increases, so does the concern for safe, clean, scenic areas in which to walk. Organizations such as the Walkways Center, the Rails-to-Trails Conservance, and the Natrional Parks and Conservation Association are actively promoting responsible development and conservation practices.

We Applaud and support their efforts. We also encourage our members to become aware of local issues involving the preservation of natural areas within neighborhoods where residents can enjou walking, biking and other outdoor activities.

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