Gloomy weather didn't dampen the spirits of participants in the World's Largest Truck Convoy on Saturday, Sept. 26. Three convoys in Michigan joined with others across the United States and Canada.
Truck drivers and several Special Olympics Michigan athletes made the 18-mile journey from Alma to Mount Pleasant as part of the convoy. The Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe and Blodgett Shell were the main sponsors of the event.
Dave Martin of Mount Pleasant, Mich. made the trip with his friend and SOMI athlete Dave Ordiway.
"This is the third year that we've done it together and my fourth year overall. We didn't do it together one year, but we're still good buddies," Martin said.
Ordiway was also very enthusiastic about the event. "I had lots of fun today. Dave (Martin) and I are good friends."
The fun continued after the convoy arrived at its destination.
Athletes and drivers enjoyed lunch and camaraderie. The athletes voted for their favorite truck in the convoy. There was also a silent auction that took place.
This international event, which united more than 3,000 truck drivers across the United States and Canada, raised more than $643,000 in 2008.
The Mt. Pleasant leg of the convoy raised about $5,000. Proceeds benefit Special Olympics Michigan athletes.