Even people who can't quite sprint up the Brady Street hill can become part of the first event of the Bix weekend.

And they will be able to help raise money for charity in the process.

The "Walk This Way for United Way" will give spectators a chance to watch the Brady Street Challenge on the Thursday night prior to the 35th annual Quad-City Times Bix 7, then actually walk up the hill themselves afterward.

The Brady Street Challenge is a competitive sprint event in which individuals and high school relay teams race a quarter-mile up the Brady Street hill. It has been held on either Friday or Saturday of Bix weekend in the past, but is being moved to Thursday night (July 23) this year.

Participants in the Walk This Way event will pay $20 and receive a commemorative

T-shirt and admission to a private party at the starting line, including live music and free refreshments. After the party, the entire group will walk the hill. Those wanting to participate but not inclined to walk the hill will be able to say "no way," according to the organizers.

Quad-City Times publisher Julie Bechtel, the 2009 campaign chair for United Way, said it "seemed like a great way to marry the biggest event in our area with an opportunity to really help the community at a time it's truly needed.

"This has been a tough period for many in the Quad-Cities," she added. "There are more people than ever in need of assistance of one form or another. Through this event, we can support United Way in building the strength of the community - and have fun at the same time."

Bix 7 race director Ed Froehlich said he was excited to find a way to partner with United Way.

"There are thousands of people that love being part of the Bix, whether they are participants, volunteers or spectators," he said. "This event will give them all a chance to do something to kick off their weekend that will give back to the community in a big way."