A fundraiser at Heritage Springs Country Club raises about $6,500 for Special Olympics.
By MICHELE MILLER
Published February 6, 2004
TRINITY - They competed so others could, too.
Some of the events were a little unusual: a walking race, bean bag toss, obstacle course putting contest and seated golf ball drive.
This was the third year for the Heritage Springs Community Association Special Olympics Fundraiser.
The event, held Jan. 30 at Heritage Springs Country Club and sponsored by Lennar and U.S. Homes, is currently the biggest fundraiser for Pasco's special athletes, said Valerie Lundin, who coordinates the Pasco County Special Olympics.
While the Pasco County School District provides the main funding for Pasco's Special Olympic games, money raised from these fundraisers goes a long way in helping provide athletes with transportation, uniforms, equipment and awards, as well as covering some of the expense for the state competitions.
Some 156 participants and 36 volunteers came out for this year's Heritage Springs games.
"It's a great event that brings the community together for a great cause," said Mitch Krach, vice president of operations at Heritage Springs.
"The first year we collected $2,200, and it was $4,400 last year," said Tom Leopold, the resident chairman of the event. This year the Heritage folks were hoping to raise $5,000, and they exceeded that goal, raising roughly $6,500.
"I think it's a great thing," said Lundin, who will receive a check tonight at a banquet at Heritage Springs. "They can be proud to support the kids in Pasco County and set a good precedent with community pride. And I think they have some fun, too."
