Special Olympics, Avelo Partner for Plane Pull
An Avelo Airlines jet will soon take a unique path down the runway at Tweed-New Haven Airport.
Avelo is partnering with Special Olympics Connecticut to host its first-ever Plane Pull Tuesday, Sept. 12 to benefit Special Olympics athletes.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with our caring friends from Avelo Airlines for this awesome event,” said Special Olympics Connecticut president and CEO Mike Mason.
“It aims to inspire the same kind of teamwork, perseverance and joy that Special Olympics athletes display at their competitions, while raising the funds we need to provide year-round sports training and health education and screenings that strengthen and empower our athletes.”
Pulling Together
During the Plane Pull, teams of 20 or more will attempt to pull a 90,000 pound Avelo Airlines Boeing Next-Generation 737 jetliner 20 feet.
“It’s a great team building opportunity for co-workers, or members of local civic organizations, or gyms, or first responders,” said Special Olympics director of communications and marketing Debbie Horne.
“It’s just a really unique opportunity and a great way to support our athletes.”
“This Plane Pull will not only be a fun day of team building, but more importantly a demonstration of Connecticut pulling together for these inspiring athletes.”
Avelo Airlines’ Andrew Levy.
Teams can register on the Special Olympics Connecticut website, and begin raising a minimum of $2,000 or $100 per person.
There will be prizes for the top fundraising teams.
And each member of the team that pulls the plane the fastest will receive a free Avelo roundtrip ticket.
“This Plane Pull will not only be a fun day of team building for organizations from across the state, but more importantly a demonstration of Connecticut pulling together for these inspiring athletes,” said Avelo Airlines chair and CEO Andrew Levy.
Opportunities for Athletes
The Plane Pull will take place from 9 am to 5 pm at Tweed-New Haven Airport on Burr Street in New Haven.
Avelo Airlines is the presenting sponsor of the Plane Pull and WWE is the Platinum sponsor of the event.
And Horne said they are still looking for more sponsors.
“We will be posting updates about the events and ways to get involved on our social media platforms as well,” said Horne.
Horne said the money raised will go a long way toward helping provide opportunities and events for their athletes.
“These events are so important to them because they really help boost their self confidence, give them skills, give them friendships that last a lifetime, and that so means so much,” she said.
Proud Partnership
While this is the first Plane Pull, it is not the first time Avelo and Special Olympics Connecticut have collaborated.
The airline provided transportation for 50 athletes and delegates who attended the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando.
They also hosted a grand send-off and festive welcome home celebration for them.
“We are very proud of our partnership with Special Olympics Connecticut and grateful for the life-changing opportunities they offer their athletes.”
Levy
“We are very proud of our partnership with Special Olympics Connecticut and grateful for the life-changing opportunities they offer their athletes,” said Levy.
“Working together as One Crew is a core value at Avelo and our partnership with Special Olympics Connecticut is a powerful expression of our unifying spirit of collaboration.”
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