Hundreds run for Special Olympics

PENSACOLA, Fla. (WALA) - Hundreds turned out for the Special Olympics Mardi Gras Fun Run Event. Their donations are going toward helping a special group of athletes.

Runners and walkers did more than eye the finish line at the Osceola Golf Course in Pensacola. They were supporting the local Special Olympics and athletes like 24-year-old Jeff Woods.

Jeff has won over 50 medals since he started competing as a child. Jeff's father, Fred Woods, has been by his side the whole time as his coach.

"To see him develop over the years from just going out there, standing there and helping a little bit, to going out and actually being a solid athlete is heart lifting and exciting," said Fred Woods.

Fred said it means a lot to see so many people out supporting the Special Olympics.

"It kind of helps us feel a little more confident that the community is behind us and our athletes here in Escambia County," he said.

Jeff said he hopes the money raised can help the local Special Olympics grow even more.

"[I hope we] get more fundraisers, coaches, athletes and chaperones," Jeff Woods said.

Fred Woods said he hopes to be able to coach for a long time to come.

"You get that warm glow when you see the athlete that you've been helping train, cross the finish line. There's nothing else like it. It's the best drug in the world," he said.

More than 400 people participated in the run, helping the Special Olympics reach their goal and raise over $10,000.