Run raises funds for Special Olympics

PENSACOLA, Fla. (WALA) - Folks had their sights set on more than just the finish line Saturday as the Special Olympics 5K Fun Run gave them the chance to support a special group of local athletes and their families.

Elliot Hunter has been taking part in events with his brother Logan— a Special Olympics athlete — for around four years now.

“It’s a blast to be out there with him, sweating and working with him out there. When it’s done, just to see the joy on their faces brings a smile to my face,” said Hunter.

Officials say these events help raise thousands of dollars for the Special Olympics and its athletes.

Hannah Cordill took her 3-year-old daughter Riley out. She said, when Riley was born, doctors told them she’d never walk.

“She’s about to turn 4 in two weeks and she is walking. She’ll never be at the level where she’s running. But we think it’s important that she participates in events like this. We ran three miles and she was clapping the entire time,” Cordill said.

Officials say hundreds of people took part in the entire event.

The Special Olympics will hold their meeting March 23, 2013 on Corry Station in Pensacola.