RICHMOND, Ind. – Wayne County Special Olympics is preparing for its third annual Fire Truck Pull, a fundraiser supporting local athletes.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 26, at Achieva Resources in Richmond. The fire truck pull begins at 2 p.m., with teams competing to pull a fully loaded, 70,000-pound fire truck. The event is free and will include family activities and fire safety demonstrations.
Lonnie Snow with Wayne County Special Olympics, said in an interview with 101.7 The Point, that about 12 teams have registered and organizers are hoping to reach 15.
“We have about twelve right now. We like to go to fifteen,” Snow said.
Teams consist of 10 people and cost $500 to participate. Snow said proceeds help cover expenses for local athletes.
“All that funding goes back to support the athletes, whether it's sports programs, equipment, travel,” he said.
Snow said Wayne County Special Olympics serves about 80 athletes. The organization currently is in its softball season, with bowling scheduled to begin after September.
The Fire Truck Pull also will feature a children's pull for kids 8 and younger using a 1923 Model T fire truck. Children will also have the opportunity to ride in the truck and participate in a simulated firefighting activity.
A silent auction and pet contest are planned as well.
Jeepers Beyond City Limits will participate with a Jeep rally beginning at 10 a.m. Organizers expect about 50 to 60 Jeeps, according to Snow.
Snow said the event is intended to give the community an opportunity to meet local Special Olympics athletes.
“Our biggest challenge is bringing people, bringing our athletes to light in our community,” Snow said. “People in Richmond don't realize these athletes compete in all the events that you mentioned.”
In addition to participating in the Fire Truck Pull, people can support Wayne County Special Olympics by volunteering or making a donation. Information is available through the Wayne County Special Olympics website.
Team registration is available for the Fire Truck Pull, with registration and payment required before participating.
