Suburban fitness centers to host Special Olympics fundraiser Saturday

Several suburban fitness centers host a fundraiser Saturday benefiting Special Olympics athletes.

Special Olympics Illinois is teaming with 20 workout facilities statewide challenging teams of 10 people to pull a distance of a marathon on a row machine in the shortest amount of time. The Row Raiser begins 9 a.m. at CrossFit locations in 18 communities, including St. Charles (333 N. Randall Road), Palatine (540 W. Colfax), and Carol Stream (330 S. Main Place).

The cost is $50 per person and $500 per team.

Awards will be given in a variety of categories, such as fastest marathon.

The first Row Raiser held in Quincy in 2015 raised $10,000. This year's goal is $100,000.

The nonprofit Special Olympics Illinois offers year-round training and competition in 19 sports for more than 22,500 athletes with intellectual disabilities and nearly 20,000 young athletes 2 to 7 with and without intellectual disabilities. Its programs enhance physical fitness, motor skills, self-confidence, social skills and encourage family and community support.

Call (800) 394-0562 or visit soill.org.