Red Hat to Support NC State University 5k Run ‘N Plunge Fundraiser

Raleigh, NC, USA (SANEPR.com) February 20, 2009 -- Red Hat, Inc. has become a Presenting sponsor for the North Carolina State Run ‘N Plunge fundraiser to benefit Special Olympics. Red Hat employees will also participate in both the 5k run and the polar plunge at the event.

“Special Olympics North Carolina has made an important impact across the state by empowering individuals with disabilities and transforming communities,” said DeLisa Alexander, senior vice president, People and Brand for Red Hat. “Red Hat is proud to partner with NC State University and Special Olympics to sponsor this event and raise awareness for a great cause.”

The Run ‘N Plunge fundraiser will take place at Lake Raleigh, NC State University, Centennial Campus on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2009. This unique fundraiser is being organized by the NC State University Campus Police to benefit the North Carolina Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. The event includes a 5k run/walk and a polar plunge into the cold waters of Lake Raleigh. Participants may do the race and the plunge or just one.

Runners/walkers are encouraged to lace up the sneakers for a 5k race around the USATF certified Centennial Campus course at 9 a.m. A minimum donation fee of $25 per runner is required. Runners/walkers may pre-register online at www.ncstate5k.com or register on-site the morning of the event. Participants are encouraged to create personal fundraising web pages at www.firstgiving.com/sonc to send to family and friends to solicit support. All race participants will receive a free event T-shirt.

At 11 a.m., brave souls will take a leap into the chilly waters of Lake Raleigh for the polar plunge. A minimum $50 donation fee is required to plunge. Plungers may register and create a personal fundraising web page online at www.ncstatepolarplunge.com. Plungers will receive a free long-sleeved event T-shirt.

All participants can enjoy the Run ’N Plunge event festival (9 a.m.- 1 p.m.) which will include homemade chili, baked goods, post race snacks, music, raffles and the chance to meet Special Olympics athletes!


NC State Run ‘N Plunge event sponsors include: Red Hat, Sheetz, BJ’s Wholesale Club (Presenting); SimplexGrinnell, NC State Univ. Finance & Business (Premier); Minor League Baseball Charities, NC State Univ. Facilities Division (Platinum); Clancy & Theys Construction Co., Rowland Contracting Inc., HH Architecture, Carolina Mudcats, Durham Bulls, Carolina Hurricanes, NC State University Campus Recreation, Carolina Railhawks (Gold); McKenna Construction, All Fun & Games, Gregory Poole, Bailey Contracting, Edwards IGA, Lonestar Wool & Fur, Lonesource Inc., State Employees Assoc. of NC, Mac’s Tavern, Armstrong Podiatry & Sports Health, Wake County Probation(Silver).??Sponsorship opportunities are available to local businesses and corporations! A fun employee outing and great marketing benefits will result from supporting Special Olympics North Carolina athletes in this event! Call 919-539-5963 for more details.

For more event information, visit www.sonc.net or call 919-515-5963.

Special Olympics North Carolina offers year-round sports training and competition for more than 38,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities. These athletes inspire greatness through their success and provide motivation to the thousands of coaches, sports officials, local program committee members and event organizers involved in Special Olympics statewide. SONC offers Olympic-type competition in 20 sports on local and state levels. It is among the largest Special Olympics programs in North America in terms of registered athletes.

Contact Info:
Megan O'Donnell
Vice President of Communications
Special Olympics North Carolina
Phone: (919) 818-4598
E-Mail: modonnell@sonc.net