GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN – When Spartan, the world’s largest obstacle race and endurance brand comes to Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin for the first time on June 24, it will include a unique partnership with Special Olympics Wisconsin to help drive local visibility and donations to support its more than 10,000 athletes statewide. This unique six-week fundraising and awareness campaign is possible through the Spartan Foundation, Spartan’s newly launched not-for-profit arm.
Special Olympics Wisconsin is recognized as the premier organization to unlock the joy of sport to inspire people to accept, include and value those with intellectual disabilities in all aspects of life, and thereby unite people in a shared belief of a more just and welcoming world.
The Spartan Foundation partnership enables Special Olympics Wisconsin to leverage Spartan Race local visibility for their organization and also provides a unique fundraising opportunity: The Spartan Foundation will donate 300 race entries to be used by Special Olympics Wisconsin as a tool to generate charitable donations. All sales will be tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
“With a mission to support health and fitness for the next generation, The Spartan Foundation is excited and proud to partner with Special Olympics Wisconsin based on our shared goal to improve lives, well-being and health of children,” said Spartan Race Founder and CEO, Joe De Sena.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Spartan Foundation and believe the collaboration will further help our athletes overcome obstacles and live life to the fullest. There are no limits to what individuals with intellectual disabilities can do and we are grateful to the Spartan Foundation for this opportunity to spread awareness and help raise money that keeps our athletes competing and enjoying the benefits of sports. It’s also exciting to be a part of the first Spartan Race at Lambeau Field, which is as historic a location as there is in the state of Wisconsin” said Kathleen Roach, President and CEO of Special Olympics Wisconsin.
Race for a Reason
As part of Spartan’s Stadium Series, the race at Lambeau Field will feature three events: Spartan Sprint (3 miles with 20 signature Obstacles), a Spartan Kids Race (ages 4–12) and a Special Spartans heat, a customized course for young athletes with developmental disabilities as well as those with intellectual or vocational delays, thus enabling racers to gain a sense of inclusion and athletic accomplishment as well as a sense of community within the Spartan family.
Turning the traditional grounds of America’s most beloved ballparks and stadiums upside down, Spartan Race Stadium Series events are fast and furious, blending the existing attributes of the facilities (inside and out) with the brand’s constructed obstacles. The test of strength and agility will see competitors climbing steep stairs, racing down narrow concourses with sharp turns, and facing tall walls, rope climbs, monkey bars and more. The races are timed and are official qualifying events for the 2017 Reebok Spartan Race World Championship taking place September 30 in Lake Tahoe, CA.
“From fostering an inclusive and empowering community, to supporting partners such as Special Olympics, the Spartan Foundation is committed to creating a healthy and bright future for the next generation,” said Dan Goldstein and Al Schreiber, Spartan Foundation co-directors.
Donations for race entries are encouraged from local companies and individuals. The campaign encourages companies to invite groups of employees who will be able to race together as a team.
Run, Jump, Climb and Get Muddy at the World’s Leading Obstacle Race, while supporting our athletes! Spartan Race will get your adrenaline pumping and will push you to your limits. Conquer your fears, test your strength and embrace the mud.
Become a Spartan for Special Olympics Wisconsin today! Contact Michael Mortell at 608.442.5662 or mmortell@specialolympicswisconsin.org to register.
