On Saturday, October 24, 2020, three counties participated in the first Rotary Road Rally to END POLIO NOW! Rotary District 5150 clubs from San Francisco, Marin, and San Mateo counties supported Rotary International’s World Polio Day and in doing so, had a morning of fun and treasure hunting all while in their own vehicles.
In raising money and awareness for ending polio, participants followed fun, educational, and problem solving clues throughout their counties. For many of us, we learned more about the wonderful county in which we live. With geography and landscapes ever changing due to business operations and demands, courses had to adapt and pivot to get around obstacles.
Our day began early Saturday morning as we answered various questions in order to get clues about the county and landmarks. Once we did this, we mapped out a course and planned to traverse through the county taking lots of photos and selfies to demonstrate we were there. We covered about 20 miles traversing the city from Golden Gate Park, Land’s End, Presidio, Embarcadero, Oracle Park, ending at the new Warrior's Stadium in Thrive City. We ended the day with a lunch and fellowship with various Road Rally participants.
Said Anita Stangl, who accompanied Bob Hermann and Dan Joraanstad, "I learned more about the City including some newer sites I had never seen. Now if only we could have found that seal sculpture, later to be discovered at Pier 27!"
Said Anita Stangl, who accompanied Bob Hermann and Dan Joraanstad, "I learned more about the City including some newer sites I had never seen. Now if only we could have found that seal sculpture, later to be discovered at Pier 27!"
For those who did not wish to participate in the in-person rally, they were able to participate virtually to enjoy the fun. Mary Liu did just that. The virtual event had participants competing in a game show answering questions related to Rotary, Polio, and cars. Mary said she did well with the Rotary and Polio questions but had no clue regarding the questions related to cars. However, she did manage to place 2nd in the tournament. Congratulations, Mary!
Dora and David Dye participated in San Mateo County and discovered a Rotary Centennial Clock in San Bruno. Past President Laine Hendricks participated in Marin County fully dressed in costume! Stephanie and Eric Schmautz along with daughters Molly and Katie (both dressed in cute costumes) joined the fun at Warrior's Stadium.
Adding to this conversation was District Governor Mary Bates, who expressed her own excitement on doing the event which was implemented by an idea created by Krissie Kirby of the Rotary Club of San Francisco Evening.
What a day and accomplishment towards raising funds and awareness towards ending Polio in the world! To see photos submitted by participants as well as videos taken that day, please go here.