Rochester Hosts 2nd Annual Great Michigan Race

Online, June 23, 2011 (Newswire.com) - The Great Michigan Race to benefit Special Olympics Michigan Inc. (SOMI) will launch version 2.0 in Rochester/Rochester Hills on Sunday, October 9, 2011. Promising to be a unique and fun experience while serving as a signature fundraiser, the event will test racers' endurance and wit as they follow clues through a course of 10 challenges set in and around the Rochester area. This event is for able-bodies individuals to support Special Olympic athletes.

Last year teams had to complete 10 different mental or physical challenges included a facade hunt challenge along Main Street, puck handling challenge at Onyx Rochester Ice Arena, harnessed zip-line ride over the Paint Creek in Municipal Park, and firefighter tools and hose training at the Municipal Training Center off the Clinton River Trail. The top qualifying teams then advanced to a final challenge as part of the Celebration hosted by the Royal Park Hotel / Russ Shelton Buick GMC. The Dewy Divas representing the Rochester Library took home the inaugural title.

In addition to a great race, there was plenty to do for the kids. The Family Fun & Fan Park located at the corner of 3rd and Water Street provided live bands, multiple bounce houses, Star Wars characters, food and beverage and over 50 vendors. The Family Fun & Fan Park also doubled as the finish line for the Racers.

There are many ways to get involved. For individuals or teams interested in registering please visit www.greatmichiganrace.com. Volunteers, vendors, and/or sponsors may also visit the website or call direct at 248-924-5995.

Supported by more than 20,000 volunteers, SOMI annually provides training and competitions to over 17,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities of all ages through 23 different Olympic type sports. SOMI relies solely on funding from donors and special events. "SOMI is honored and excited to be the sole benefactor of the 2nd Annual Great Michigan Race. The event showcases Michiganders' spirit and tenacity just as our athletes exhibit. We focus on events that bring out the best in our competitors-all in the spirit of fun and accomplishment," explained Lois Arnold, SOMI President and CEO.

The Great Michigan Race is being organized by In2itive Marketing & Events, a Michigan-based firm. "The race offers an exciting alternative to traditional fundraising efforts, and we hope to incorporate as many Michigan vendors, sponsors and retailers as possible to maximize the proceeds for SOMI," Lynne Vettraino.
For more information visit www.greatmichiganrace.com or contact our Headquarters at 248-924-5995. Registration is open. Requests by mail should be sent to Great Michigan Race, P.O. Box 81861 Rochester, MI 48308-1861 ATTN: Lynne.
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