Just who is Walkie the Walrus?

April 20, 2017

Walkie the Walrus is the world's only walking walrus and the Walkathon Mascot

Walkie was born on October 5th, 2013 with a very rare condition that left him unable to swim like other walruses. As his parents cried their eyes out, sure that he would be eaten by a polar bear, Walkie refused to give up, telling his brother:

"If I can't swim, I'll teach myself to walk."

Walkie with volunteers at 2016 Chubu Walkathon

His brother thought it would be impossible, but over the next few months Walkie never gave up. His persistent courage allowed him to become the world’s only walking walrus. As soon as he could he walked south away from the polar bear regions and kept on going.

He arrived at the Chubu Walkathon on May 18th, 2014 and was immediately adopted as the Walkathon Mascot for his walking prowess.

A group of people standing on a stage in front of a sign that says walkathon.

Thank you for your support of the 34th Walkathon!

By Nao Geisler • 2025年5月19日

Message from the 2025 Walkathon Committee Chair.

A man and a woman are holding a child in front of a Walkathon banner.

Raffle Prize Round Up for the 2025 Chubu Walkathon

By Bruce McCaughan • 2025年5月15日

Thanks to the generosity of our gracious sponsors, we have managed to gather quite the cache of fabulous raffle prizes for the 34th Chubu Walkathon!

Meet Walkathon Volunteer - James Hedden

By Walkie Walrus • 2025年5月9日

James Hedden is a long-time legend in the Chubu Community who has been involved with the Walkathon since he arrived in the area in the early part of the century. James leads very effectively, but he's not one to merely accept the position and receive the accolades.

Meet Walkathon Volunteers - Yosuke and Ryota

By Walkie Walrus • 2025年5月7日

Assigned to Reception and Information Desk, Yosuke and Ryota do a super job at leading the team of volunteers assigned to reception.

Collage of pics from a strawberry picking outing

Project Report: Nagoya Tewo Tsunagu Ikuseikai

By Walkie Walrus • 2025年4月30日

Nagoya Tewo Tsunagu Ikuseikai hosted a strawberry picking excursion for families with children with disabilities who usually find it difficult to go out together.

Flyer to attract Marche vendors to an event

Walkathon "Marche" : Call for Marche Vendors!

By Bruce McCaughan • 2025年4月8日

The Chubu Walkathon is seeking Marche Vendors (handicrafts, farm-fresh veggies, baked goods, etc.) to participate in our community at this always exciting, international festival.

Load More Articles