FOND DU LAC — A truck convoy traveled from Mercury Marine in Fond du Lac to the EAA Airventure grounds in Oshkosh Saturday to raise money for Special Olympics Wisconsin and honor truckers during Trucker Appreciation Week.
A torch-lighting kicked off the event at 8:30, followed by an auction, in which the prize of lead spot in the convoy sold for over $3,000.
The money raised stays in Wisconsin, said Chad Hershner, president and CEO of Special Olympics Wisconsin.
"All of our athletes get to compete in the sporting events free of charge," Hershner said. "We also are really committed to the health of our athletes. So if that's access to free dental screenings, glasses, hearing, mental health, whatever support they need on or off the playing field is really important."
Special Olympics Wisconsin athlete Travis Stuckart said he's benefited from the organization throughout the years.
“I’m very grateful to the trucking industry and law enforcement for the great fundraising that they did to help 9,000 athletes such as myself and support all athletes around the state of Wisconsin," Stuckart said.
Stuckart said the truck convoy had special significance for him.
"It brings back a lot of memories," Stuckart said. "My grandpa used to be a truck driver for 40 years, so this is a great honor to be able to live his legacy of being a truck driver. It's an amazing opportunity."
Last year, around 100 trucks participated in the event and raised about $100,000 for Special Olympics Wisconsin.
