The eighth annual Sallarulo 5K Race for Champions and Carnival will be held Nov. 12 in the Alvin Sherman Library quad, starting at 8 a.m. followed by the carnival from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The event is hosted by Special Olympics Broward, a nonprofit organization that supports children and adults with special needs and gives them the opportunity to participate in sports programs.
Jene Kapela Korzeniowski, director of student affairs for the regional campuses, said, “It gives them the opportunity to learn, interact with others, and develop their ability to be successful through these athletic programs.”
Paul Sallarulo, a South Florida community leader, started the race eight years ago to support Special Olympics Broward for doing so much for his son, who has a disability.
Don Taft, a supporter of Special Olympics Broward, made arrangements to house Special Olympics Broward on campus when he funded the University Center. Since then, the race has become an annual tradition and Special Olympics Broward’s offices are located in the Parker South Module, near the Parker Building.
Korzeniowski said, “This is the only partnership between an institution of higher education and Special Olympics in the country, so it is unique for NSU to have this partnership.”
All the proceeds from this event will go to benefit Special Olympics athletes and their families. This year, the 5K race is free for NSU students, but community members pay a $25 registration fee to participate.
Taylor Brown, junior business management major and volunteer with Special Olympics Broward, said that being part of this event is a rewarding experience for everyone involved.
“It’s a really good opportunity to get involved and it is great to see the abilities these athletes have. Regardless of intellectual disabilities, everyone has a talent and that is something that special Olympics has taught me,” said Brown.
Last year, the proceeds totaled $165,000 and the organizers hope to raise $200,000 this year. The money will pay for sports training and competitions, including transportation, uniforms and sport equipment. It will also help cover the cost of taking the Special Olympics athletes to county and state Olympic games and even the national competition next June.
More than 100 Special Olympics athletes will participate in the upcoming race.
Linda Wells, director of Special Olympics, said, “It’s important for people to come out and see the abilities of our athletes, which is something we highlight. We really enjoy the fact that our athletes can be out there, side-by-side, with the community.”
The carnival is free for all NSU and community members. Student organizations are invited to have booths and students can also volunteer to help with the day’s activities.
Korzeniowski said, “The carnival has the same flavor and feel as CommunityFest. Students are encouraged to turn out and participate.”
The carnival will feature performances by special Olympic athletes, games and activities, arts and crafts, free giveaways and food.
There will also be special guests, who will be revealed at the event. Last year’s guest included Miami Dolphins cheerleaders and representatives from the Miami Marlins.
“This event supports a great cause and it gives people something fun to do on a Sunday morning and it also brings everyone together to have a sense of NSU pride,” said Korzeniowski.
All participants can register the day of the race or register online beforehand by visiting sallaruloraceforchampions.org.
