Human energy makes Hyde Park (a) Blast

Area runners, walkers and cyclists can have fun for a cause at the seventh annual Hyde Park Blast at Hyde Park Square on Saturday, June 28. "Go Hard, Go Green" is the theme of this year's green fundraising event, which begins at 8 AM and includes a run/walk, block party, criterium cycling race and kids events.

This year's event proceeds will benefit CancerFree Kids, Give Back Cincinnati, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and The Wellness Community.

Perhaps the most interesting concept coming out of Hyde Park Blast is the element of human energy, which is an idea still in the works.

"It is one way we can physically show how human energy and alternative energy in general can make a difference or even make you rethink your preconceived notions about energy issues," says event co-organizer Chad Sims.  "Cincinnati is one of the worst towns for cycling as viable way of alternate transport.  We'll use cycling to show how human energy can actually power things like a blender, lights, or even offset the power usage of an event like ours."

Sims says that Hyde Park Blast is not only a cool block party, but also has an important mission.

"We are the largest event in the city to have a wide and deep reach with regards to messaging, education, execution, physical touches and hopefullly getting people to make some different decisions," he says.  By expanding the partners and participating groups and using a non-traditional vehicle like a run/walk event, we will push the needle on the awareness scale."

Co-organizer Cheryl Koopman says that the event has citywide appeal.

"We’ve focused our efforts on making the event one of the best 'something for everyone' events in the city, while we’re raising money and raising cancer awareness and giving back to Cincinnati in general," she says.

Writer: Kevin LeMaster
Source: Cheryl Koopman and Chad Sims, co-organizers, Hyde Park Blast
Photo provided by Hyde Park Blast