With all of the upset and financial loss that the government shutdown is leaving in its wake, one would ask:'Why do we care how it effects runners!'
Runners are only a few amongst fitness enthusiasts who frequent National Parks daily. Many flock to these parks for the solitude found in the scenic surrounding. There are walkers, hikers, cyclist, runners, bird watchers and many other explorers who are affected by the government shutdown.
Many people live on a budget and have taken time off of work and planned a vacation based on visiting a National Park. They're plans are ruined as it isn't easy to switch gears, change dates and vacation. Many races are heal in and around National Parks as well. This Sunday's Jersey Shore Half-Marathon, which was suppose to have taken place on Sandy Hook has been cancelled due to the shut down. If the government remains closed, many races across the country will be forced to cancel as well!
What's a trip to South Dakota without seeing Mount Rushmore? Or going all the way to The Grand Canyon only to find you can't get into the site? Thousands of people flock to Yellowstone National Park , otherwise named Jellystone Park, a fictional takeoff on the famous Yellowstone National Park where 'Yogi Bear', accompanied by his constant companion Boo-Boo Bear, to go camping, hiking the Rockies and other activities.
Sandy Hook is a small part of the Greater National Park, Gateway, but its closure has impacted many people who frequent The Hook to use the facilities for fishing, walking, running on car-free trails and cycling.
Like deer staring into the headlights of an oncoming vehicle, we runners are displaced and long for the car-free paths offered by Sandy Hook. To make matters worse, we just got Sandy Hook back after it's 3 month closure from the Super Storm Sandy. To lose it again is a shame. Especially since ALL of the National Park closures are due to a childish standoff in the government WE elected to serve US. I think they lost the message of what service means.
