5k to benefit Special Olympics; organization hopes to raise $7,500

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Special Olympics Michigan is again partnering with Central Michigan University Saturday for the annual Miles for Medals CMU Homecoming 5K.

This is the fourth year of the partnership. Event registration is $20 and due by 7:30 a.m. Saturday. A 1 mile run/walk begins 8 a.m. in front of Finch Fieldhouse. The 5k run/walk begins five minutes later.

Dan Ekonen, coordinator of Volunteers and Coaches Education for Special Olympics Michigan, said this year’s 333 registered participants, as of Oct. 6, exceeded last years’ 300 pre-registered participants.

“Last year, we had over 400 people (total) and raised $7,000,” he said. “Our goal this year is to raise about $7,500.”

Medals will be awarded to all participants, top overall individual male and female finishers and top overall individual male and female masters finishers.

To register visit www.cmich.edu/race.xml or go to the Special Olympics Michigan office by Rowe Hall, where participants can fill out a paper application.

“Proceeds from the walk go to support the year-round sports training and competition for the 230 Special Olympics Michigan athletes with intellectual disabilities who live in the Mount Pleasant area,” according a press release.

Ekonen said funds from the run will also go toward state events hosted by Special Olympics Michigan. They sponsor seven state events throughout the year.

Special Olympics Michigan’s summer games are held on the CMU campus and over 100 students participate in the Traverse City winter games. Participating students and faculty are trained to prepare and organize the games for the athletes.

“The CMU community supports the athletes of Special Olympics Michigan in so many ways,” Ekonen said. “The CMU Homecoming 5K & 1-mile Fun Run/Walk is another great way in which CMU reaches out to our athletes.”