Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the purpose behind this Walk-A-Thon?

The 2015 Chinmaya Mission Houston Walk-A-Thon commemorates the 100th birth anniversary of Pujya Swami Chinmayananda. It celebrates the Journey of a Master on the path of oneness. It unifies the community to march together and continue the journey he dedicated his life to.

2. What is the starting point?

Chinmaya Prabha, 10353 Synott Road, Sugar Land, TX 77498

3. When does it start?

7:30 AM, Saturday May 9, 2015

4. What is the route?

Chinmaya Prabha to Eldridge Park to Chinmaya Prabha Eldridge Park address: 2511 Eldridge Rd, Sugar Land, TX 77498

5. When does it end?

Expected time for the Walk-A-Thon to end is 11.30 AM

6. How long is the route?

Total is ~5K (5 kilometers). Short routes are also provided; people can decide to not walk around the park, or to come to the park directly by car.

7. What is the registration fee?

Registration fees is $5 for all age participants

8. Will I get a T-shirt? Will I get to pick the T-shirt sizes for my family members?

T-shirt will be provided to registered participants. There are multiple sizes to choose from: Adult XL, Adult L, Adult M, Adult S, Youth L, Youth M, Youth S, Youth XS.

9. Whom can I invite?

Everyone! All your friends from Chinmaya Mission and outside. All are welcome to join this community Walk-A-Thon.

10. How do I register myself and for my family?

You can register online at chinmayamission.org/walkathon Or, you can go to chinmayamission.org and click on “Community Walk-A-Thon” tab on the top or click on the “Walk-A-Thon flyer” displayed on the home page.

11. Will I receive any email regarding the confirmation of my registration?

Once you register, you will receive an email confirmation from “Chinmaya Mission Houston” with the amount paid. Your registration will be considered incomplete if the registration fee has not been paid.

12. Can I register through my smartphone or tablet?

It is recommended to use laptop or desktop for doing the online registration. Tablets (or iPads) can also be used but please make sure that you use Google chrome browser. It is recommended that you do not use smartphone because the screen resolution may not be optimal.

13. How do I contribute towards this cause?

When you register online, you get an option as “I want to also contribute: $”. You can specify your preferred amount in the corresponding text box and the amount will get contributed towards Walk-A-Thon. Also, note that while the registration fees are not tax deductible, this contribution qualifies as a tax deductible donation.

14. What do I do if there are any issues with online registration?

You can email CMHRegistrations@chinmayahouston.org and someone will respond to you as soon as possible. You can also bring your queries to the “Help Desk for Walk-A-Thon” that will be setup near the bookstore every Sunday beginning March 8, 2015. Our volunteers will be present to help between the two lecture sessions and after the second lecture session.

15. When do I collect my T-shirt?

Few days prior to the T-shirt distribution day, you will receive an email with your registration id and other details including the location and timing for picking up your T-shirt and packet. Please bring this email to the desk distributing the T-shirts. T-shirt distribution will start from Sunday April 19, 2015 at Chinmaya Mission. Tables will be setup between the two lecture sessions from 10:15 AM to 11:15 AM and after the second lecture session from 1.15 PM to 2.30 PM. Distribution will continue for two more Sundays after that - April 26 and May 3. Very limited distribution will happen on the event day.

16. What is the schedule for the Walk-A-Thon day?

a. 7.15 AM: People start lining-up at the gate. Volunteers will lead followed by 11th and 12th graders. The walk will begin after a short musical pledge
b. 7.30 AM: People start walking (staggered)
c. 7.30 - 9 AM: Everybody at Eldridge Park, walking or resting. Food stalls open
d. 9 - 10 AM: Various activities (tug-of-war, aerobics, laughing yoga etc.). Food continues
e. 10 AM: People start back to the Chinmaya Prabha starting point and depart by 11.30 AM

17. Are there any activities for those who decide not to walk, including kids?

There is plenty to do once you are at Eldridge Park. There are several fun games and activities planned between 9 AM and 10 AM like tug-of-war, aerobics, laughing yoga, music and dancing.

18. Is there any kind of baby-sitting facility available for kids?

No. Kids need to be with their parents at all times. They can participate in the activities at Eldridge Park or just have a good time playing/resting at the park.

19. What should I bring with me?

Each participant should bring,
a. Walk-A-Thon T-shirt (worn before reaching the starting point)
b. Pair of sun glasses (optional)
c. Sun hat (optional)
d. Sun screen lotion (recommended)
e. Any food specific to infants/toddlers (if applicable)

20. Will water be provided?

Yes, water booths will be present at the park and along the route.

21. Will food/snacks be provided?

Yes, vegetarian snacks will be provided for all at the Eldridge Park between 9 AM and 10 AM.

22. Is there a dress code for the people taking part?

The only requirement is for participants to wear the Walk-A-Thon T-shirt provided as part of the registration process.

23. Where do I park?

All cars need to be parked at the Chinmaya Prabha parking lot located at 10353 Synott Road Sugar Land, TX 77498. In case of heavy rush, the parking volunteers will be directing you to an adjacent parking area.