Community Invited to Pull Together for Local Special Olympics Athletes at Fire Truck Pull

The annual event takes place Saturday, August 8 in Lawrenceburg.

(Lawrenceburg, Ind.) - When Kendra Franklin stood atop the podium after winning gold in swimming at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota, she represented more than herself. She represented hundreds of athletes across Ripley, Ohio and Dearborn counties whose lives have been transformed through the opportunities made possible by Special Olympics Indiana – Ripley Ohio Dearborn Counties.

Now, the community has an opportunity to help more athletes achieve those same dreams.

Special Olympics Indiana – Ripley, Ohio and Dearborn Counties is inviting businesses, civic organizations, schools, public safety agencies, churches and community groups to form teams for the 2026 Fire Truck Pull on Saturday, Aug. 8, at Lawrenceburg Civic Park

Hosted in partnership with the Lawrenceburg Fire Department and presented by the City of Lawrenceburg, the annual fundraiser challenges teams of up to 10 people to pull a 50,000-pound fire truck 50 feet. While the competition is designed to be fun, every dollar raised helps provide year-round sports training and athletic competition for more than 250 Special Olympics Indiana athletes in Ripley, Ohio and Dearborn counties.

Since its beginning in 2012, the Fire Truck Pull has raised more than $244,500 to support Special Olympics athletes throughout Ripley, Ohio and Dearborn counties.

For Franklin, those opportunities have meant far more than athletic competition. Through Special Olympics Indiana, she has grown as both an athlete and a leader, inspiring others with her determination and recently earning gold medals on one of the organization’s biggest stages at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games.

“Every athlete deserves the chance to discover what they’re capable of,” Lawrenceburg Fire Chief Patrick Myers said. “The Fire Truck Pull is one of those events that brings our entire community together for a great cause. We encourage local businesses, organizations and community leaders to accept the challenge, build a team and help create more success stories like Kendra’s.”

In addition to friendly competition, organizers are encouraging businesses to challenge customers, suppliers, neighboring organizations and even competitors to see who can field the fastest team while making the biggest impact for local athletes.

“The Fire Truck Pull is about much more than moving a fire truck,” said Yvonda Kramer, County Coordinator for Special Olympics Indiana – Ripley Ohio Dearborn Counties. “Every team that participates helps provide opportunities for athletes to build confidence, develop leadership skills, create lifelong friendships and accomplish goals that many never thought possible.”

The event will feature children’s activities, a Kiddie Pull, a foam party and awards recognizing the fastest pull, lowest combined team weight, top fundraising team, top individual fundraiser, top Special Olympics athlete fundraiser and the High School Challenge.

Teams of up to 10 participants commit to raising a minimum of $750. Admission is free for spectators. Teams that register by July 25 will receive official event T-shirts.

To register a team, become a sponsor or make a donation, visit soindiana-rod.org/ftp.

For more information, contact Greg Townsend at gtownsend@soindiana-rod.org or 812-584-6861.