Sunday was a very special day for supporters of Special Olympics Pennsylvania. Three thousand runners took part in the Fourth Annual Special Olympics PA Beaver Stadium 5K Race, held on the Penn State campus. Several hundred non-runners participated in the One Mile Family Fun Walk. Their combined effort produced records for the number of participants and the amount of money raised for the charity.
One day after snow and sleet rained on the Blue-White game, the Special Olympics PA event was held under clear skies, filled with brilliant sunshine. That helped bring out a huge crowd and countless smiles.
The day began with a rousing pep rally. Steve Jones, the voice of the Nittany Lions, served as emcee. Sue Paterno, a tireless supporter of the Special Olympics mingled with the crowd, posing for pictures with fans. Mrs. Paterno was singled out for her efforts as one of the principal founders of the 5K race. Football great, Franco Harris, helped rev-up the crowd — he was the official race starter.
Harris was also given the first-ever Special Olympics Pennsylvania Community Hero Award. That honor goes to a member of the Penn State football family who’s shown support and generosity to the Special Olympics.
With the runners anxious to get moving, Harris barked out, “Get ready. Get set. GO!” That unleashed a torrent of racers, who sprinted down Porter Rd. Just 16 minutes later, the leaders dashed through the tunnel and into Beaver Stadium, finishing at the 50 yard line. Here are the top finishers of the Beaver Stadium 5K Run:
Men’s Winner – Dave Moyer 16:01:40
Men’s Second Place – Jeff Miller 16:03:89
Men’s Third Place – Paul Grieve 16:09:98
Women’s Winner – Megan Hutchinson 17:55:16
Women’s Second Place – Erin Witt 18:27:50
Women’s Third Place – Kim Ward 18:29:35
Spectators cheered and clapped as runners entered the stadium. Franco Harris stood on the sideline, high-fiving runners and walkers alike as the two groups reached the finish line.
Generous sponsors were recognized for their impressive financial support.
Sheetz convenience stores gave $100,000. More than 300 of the runners were Sheetz employees. “We run so our athletes can run — and swim and jump and throw and probably more than anything, enjoy the participation and competition,” said Louie Sheetz as he posed with an over-sized check.
The Meder family donated $25,0000. Anthony Lubrano, the Sallie Mae Corporation, and Tony and Cathy Misitano each donated $10,000.
The Special Olympics also paid tribute to law enforcement organizations across the state. Organizers say various police agencies in Pennsylvania will help the Special Olympics raise more than $1 million in 2013.
In all, organizers believe Sunday’s event raised more than $360,000, an all-time record high, although the exact total won’t be known for several days. The number of people taking part, either as a runner or walker, was about 3,700 — and that’s also a record high. Eric Cushing of Special Olympics Pennsylvania says, “We’re very, very happy. This event, four years ago raised $46,000. We never in our wildest dreams thought this would happen. It’s the largest fundraiser in Special Olympics PA history.”
Special Olympics PA says its mission is to provide year-round sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them opportunities to develop physical fitness and demonstrate courage while sharing friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community.
Family Fun Walk Video
Beaver Stadium 5K Video
