31 August 2005
Corporate Calgary to Pull Steam Locomotive for
Special Olympic Athletes
Hertitage Park Calgary - Calgary's business community will pull together at a unique event in
support of Special Olympic Athletes in Alberta. Heritage Park, the Alberta Law Enforcement Torch Run, Calgary Police Service and
Canadian Pacific Railway have teamed up to host the first ever "train pull for Special Olympics" on 2 Sep 2005
at Heritage Park in Calgary.
"The "Pulling the Past for the Future" will feature teams of 15 people from corporate Calgary pulling an
80-ton vintage CPR steam locomotive a distance of 25 feet," said CPR Police Service Superintendent, Gerry Fish.
"In addition to raising thousands of dollars for an important cause, the teams will be having fun while competing for bragging
rights for who can pull a historical locomotive in the fastest time."
To take part in "Pulling the Past for the Future" each team will pay a registration fee of $1,000. As well, participants are
invited to gather pledges for additional donations. Register early as we are limited to 15 teams. To participate in this event
contact Theresa Garagan at 403-860-3394 or email at Pol2442@calgarypolice.ca
"We are hoping for great things with the "Pulling the Past for the Future" train pull fundraising event," said
Calgary Police Service Staff Sergeant, Gord Sands. "This is a unique opportunity to not only show your stuff, but actually do the
train pull with a Special Olympian. They are the ultimate reason we, within the Law Enforcement community, support the Law Enforcement
Torch Run and Special Olympics. Come out have fun and support a great cause!"
"Every year the Law Enforcement Torch Run comes up with new and innovative ways to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics
Alberta. This year we have organized the first ever Train Pull in Alberta," added Theresa Garagan of the Law Enforcement Torch
Run. "We hope that people will get involved in this event in order to support the athletes. Make it a family day, come out and
join us at Heritage park: have fun and meet some of our athletes."
Garagan noted at the end of Special Olympics fiscal year (30 Jun 2005), the Law Enforcement Torch Run was able to present
them a cheque for $130,000, with another additional $20,000 yet to come.
About the Law Enforcement Torch Run
The Law Enforcement Torch Run began over 24 years ago and brings together Law Enforcement Officers from more than 140 countries to
help raise awareness and funds for intellectually disabled athletes. This enables them to receive the proper training, uniforms and it
allows them to participate in various local, national and international athletic competitions held under the Special Olympics banner.
Athletes who participate in the Special Olympics achieve greater social integration and a more positive self-image.
About Special Olympics Alberta
Incorporated as a charitable organization in 1980, Special Olympics Alberta is an accredited chapter of Special Olympics Canada. Through
Special Olympics, athletes develop sport skills, social skills, and self esteem which assist them in becoming actively involved in
recreational, educational and employment opportunities in their communities.
Special Olympics promotes a more active lifestyle and better quality of life for persons with intellectual disabilities through their
participation in sport. Special Olympics Alberta offers programs in 114 communities around the province through 32 Affiliates, each
with its own volunteer Management Committee and volunteer coaches. There are over 1,200 volunteers working with over 3,000 athletes.
For more information go to: specialolympics.ab.ca.
Editor's Note: Teams competing in "Pulling the Past for the Future" will begin pulling at 10:00a.m. on Sunday,
25 Sep 2005. Media can access the Park by going to the Security Office, just north of the main gates.
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