Lion Brand® Yarn Company Hosts David Babcock, “The Knitting Runner”, in New York City for his NYC Marathon Run
New York, NY (PRWEB) October 22, 2014 -- Beginning Thursday, October 30th and through Sunday, November 2nd, Lion Brand® Yarn Company will host David Babcock, The Knitting Runner, in New York City for several events leading up to his 2014 TCS New York City Marathon run on Sunday, November 2nd. Babcock is the current Guinness World Record holder for knitting the longest scarf (12 feet) while running a marathon. David Babcock will run and finger knit in the NYC Marathon with 135 “Athletes to End Alzheimer’s” runners to support the New York City Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.
Lion Brand is sponsoring David Babcock in the New York City Marathon on November 2nd, 2014 to help raise funds for free care and support programs provided by the New York City Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, in addition to Alzheimer’s research, and to bring the creative and health benefits of knitting to a wide audience. Babcock, a professor of graphic design at the University of Central Missouri, found an opportunity to improve his health (by figuring out a low impact way to run), overcome a creative challenge (how to run and knit), and defy a stereotype (that knitting is a woman’s craft) while supporting an important cause.
“I really hope that this can be a teaching moment,” said Babcock. “In school I try to stress the importance of failure and experimentation. Creativity means doing something where you don’t have all of the answers, something where you don’t know how it is going to turn out. You start with a question, ‘What if?’ or ‘Can I?,’ go for it and fail. And then keep experimenting and learning until it turns out okay.”
Babcock overcame his newest challenge for this marathon upon learning that he could not use knitting needles during the marathon – prompting him to use his fingers to knit a scarf, made with Lion Brand’s Wool-Ease® Thick and Quick® yarn that will be unraveled from crocheted yarn items that he is wearing. The symbolism also serves to show that Alzheimer’s is an unraveling of memories.
A cheering section at the marathon will include people knitting and crocheting in support of Babcock at 110th & 5th Avenue (mile22).
For those who have any questions about Alzheimer’s or dementia, the 24-hour Helpline is available around-the-clock and is answered by professional staff. The phone number is 800-272-3900 and translation is available in more than 180 languages. The Chapter also encourages individuals to visit its web site at http://www.alz.org/nyc to get additional information about the many free services it provides.
David Babcock’s Schedule:
Thursday October 30th 1pm – Finger-knitting fun walk in Central Park. Join Knitting Runner David Babcock for an hour-long, easy-paced, walk and talk in Central Park. David will teach his unique finger-knitting technique and Lion Brand will have a supply of Hometown USA yarn on hand. Meet at the Daniel Webster Statue on the west side of 72nd Street Transverse in Central Park. FREE. No rain date.
Thursday, October 30th 6-7:15pm – David Babcock will give a talk at the Lion Brand Yarn Studio, 34 W. 15th Street, Manhattan. Space is limited. To RSVP, visit http://lionbrandyarnstudio.com.
Sunday, November 2nd, Marathon Day. Join Lion Brand at the New York City Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association’s cheering station at 110th Street & 5th Avenue (mile 22). We’ll be finger-knitting and cheering David on with a supply of Hometown USA.
About Lion Brand® Yarn Company
Lion Brand® Yarn Company is a 5th generation, family-owned and operated business, and a beloved American brand since 1878. The company is devoted to inspiring and educating knitters and crocheters with yarns, patterns, how-tos, and ideas that elevate their yarn crafting experience.
About David Babcock
Featured in the New York Times and around the world, David Babcock is the Guinness World Record holder for knitting the longest scarf (12 feet!) while running a marathon, which he did in Kansas City on October 20th, 2013. Coupled with a great deal of skill and endurance, David credits his choice in using Lion Brand’s Hometown USA as a factor in his amazing accomplishment!
About The Alzheimer’s Association, New York City Chapter
The Alzheimer’s Association, New York City Chapter provides free information, confidential assistance and support for those with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, as well as for their family members, caregivers and professionals. Our core programs include a 24-hour Helpline, Care Consultation, Education and Training, Support Groups, Early Stage Services and MedicAlert® + Alzheimer's Association Safe Return®. The Chapter actively advocates at the city, state and federal level to support related legislation and heighten public awareness. The Chapter’s mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.
Contact: Brandyce Pechillo
Company: Lion Brand Yarn Company
Phone: (212) 243-8995 ext 182
Email: brandyce(dot)pechillo(at)lionbrandyarn(dot)com
Brandyce Pechillo, LION BRAND YARN COMPANY, +1 (212) 243-8995 Ext: 182, [email protected]
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