Saturday, February 25th the NC State University Police Department is hosting the Torch Run 5k and Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics North Carolina. Last year, over 700 runners ran and helped raise more than $60,000 – the goal for 2012 is to set a new record for runners and funds raised.
Special Olympics North Carolina benefits more than 38,000 adults and children with intellectual disabilities by offering no-cost sports training and competitions in 20 Olympic-type activities across the state. The NC Torch Run is the 4th annual run of its kind to benefit this great organization.
The NC Torch Run includes a competitive and recreational 5k, as well as a Kids Fun Run – all taking place on NC State’s Centenial Campus. Competitive runners are eligible for overall race awards as well as age-group awards.
Race-day registration will start at 7:30am, followed by the start of the races: Competitive and Recreational 5k starting at 8:30am, and the Kids Fun Run starting at 9:30am. Be sure to stick around after the race for fun festivities including a the Polar Plunge at Lake Raleigh.
There will also be post-race snacks and chili, music, raffle prizes, and the chance to meet the Special Olympics Athletes. For entry fees, t-shirt availability, and other registration details, check out the Torch Run website at ncsu5k.com.
The Polar Plunge will start at 11:00 am and is also benefiting Special Olympics of North Carolina. Plungers get to take a dip in the soon-to-be icy waters of Lake Raleigh. The event is open to the public and the minimum donation to plunge is $50.00. Plungers can register at www.firstgiving.com.
Prizes for the Polar Plunge will be awarded for the following categories:
- Youngest Plunger
- Oldest Plunger
- Plunger with the Best Individual Costume
- Plungers with the Best Team costume
- The largest fundraising group – both Students and Non-students
- The top individual fundraiser