Zumba gets ‘best slippah forward’ on right foot

PO‘IPU — About 100 Zumba enthusiasts took advantage of the Zumba dance/fitness craze to raise more than $1,000 for the 2012 Visitor Industry Charity Walk.

They met at the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort and Spa Grand Ballroom Saturday night.

“This is kind of early this year,” said Christina Gabriel, general manager of the Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club, which is co-sponsoring the fundraiser with the Grand Hyatt.

“Last year, I feel like the Zumba was a little closer to the walk, and our Facebook page was already in full swing,” she said.

Denise Wardlow, general manager of the Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas and the 2012 Charity Walk chair, launched this year’s campaign last Wednesday, just a few days ahead of the Zumba to the ‘80s event.

Despite the proximity to the Charity Walk kickoff, almost 100 people turned out to Zumba for three hours, using the breaks to browse through contributed items being offered for sale at a concession also offering Zumba-related items.

“I like working with them (the Waiohai people),” said Stella Burgess of the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i. “When they approached me, I told them if they would lead the event, we could provide them the room. People love doing Zumba in this ballroom.”

Troy Lazaro of the Waiohai called on several of his friends to help lead the three-hour event.

Gabriel said the Charity Walk will next host its annual bowling tournament at the Lihu‘e Bowling Center at 6 p.m., April 21.

While the lanes are sold out, the public is able to come and patronize several of the fundraising tables, which are new to the event this year.

Other events leading up to the May 12 “Put Your Best Slippah Forward” 34th Annual Charity Walk at the Historic County Building will be posted on the 2012 Charity Walk Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CharityWalkKauai.

Residents and visitors interested in the walk can visit www.charitywalkhawaii.org  or call 827-8726.