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The Whirlirun
     

What is the Whirli-Run all about?

The Whirli-Run isbuddy_ball_batter.jpg a 5K race fundraiser for  Wilson’s Buddy Ball program. The Batter-up Buddy Ball is designed to give disabled children in the community the opportunity to enjoy the great game of baseball in a positive environment. The program includes children with a wide variety of handicaps such as autism, brain injuries, impaired hearing or vision, cerebral palsy, mental retardation, use of aids such as walkers or confined to a wheelchair. Every child, no matter what their ability, is provided a complete uniform at no charge. Refreshments are supplied at each game and practice. On game days, when the weather is not cooperative, the team goes to the bowling alley and keeps the team spirit going! 

This program creates a safe and exciting environment for disabled children to play baseball. Following the model of Cal Ripken’s outreach for all children to be included in baseball, the Wilson Athletic Association holds both Spring and Fall games for approximately 60 kids in Wilson.

The event raised $6,000 for Buddy Ball in 2010.

The 5K race is organized by the 2010 Alumni Dynamic Leadership class, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce. What was originally a class project for the group has grown into an annual event to support the Buddy Ball program.

All the proceeds from the run are given in support to create a unique baseball field, specifically designed for disabled children. Special ground, equipment and field treatments make it easier for those with a variety of disabilities to play ball.

The 5K race is made possible by many donations from businesses and organizations. Donations are being accepted for the 2011 race.

5K Whirli-Run 

Saturday -  June 4, 2011
Paul V. Berry “Whirligig” Park
200 Kenan Street, Wilson, NC 27894

7:00 am – Walk Up Registration racers
7:30 am – Check for Pre-registered racers
8:00 am – Race begins

Registration:

Pre-Registration by Friday, May 20
$25 registration fee (t-shirt included)

Online Registration

Walk-Up Registration: $30 (t-shirt is not guaranteed)

Click here to print Mail-in Registration form.
Make checks payable to:  Wilson Chamber of Commerce

2011 Sponsorships:

  • ·         $2,500 – 5K level – “Presented by…” exclusive sponsorship 
  • ·         $500+ - 3K level – Visual business logo printed on t-shirt 
  • ·         $100+ - 1K level – Business name listed on t-shirt 

Click here for a Sponsorship form.  Donations and forms are due by Friday, May 13 to be included on the t-shirt.

Volunteers Needed!

The Whirli-Run needs approximately 30 volunteers for a smooth race. We enjoy having friends, family and supporters of the Buddy Ball program and Wilson Residents.

Click here for a Volunteer form.  Forms are due by Friday, May 13 to receive a volunteer t-shirt. 

Thanks to our 2010 Whirli-Run Sponsors!

  • ·         Purdue 
  • ·         Omega Sports 
  • ·         Time Warner Cable 
  • ·         Bridgestone 
  • ·         Bay Six 
  • ·         Aramark 
  • ·         Wilson Daily Times 
  • ·         Carpets by David 
  • ·         Leco Builders 
  • ·         Five County Bass Masters 
  • ·         Shore Ride Auto Sales 
  • ·         Bryant Motorsports  
  • ·         Vollis Simpson  
  • ·         and many private donations 

 

Race Course Map:

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/86548207 

 

Race Course Highlights:

 
  • Start and Finish in downtown Wilson’s Paul V. Berry Park.
  • Course is flat, fast and shady
  • Run through Historic Nash Street area and its scenic homes
  • 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place medals for all age groups

Race Awards

  • One of a kind Whirligig for overall male and female winner

Male and Female Age Groups:

  • Under 19
  • 20 - 29
  • 30 - 39
  • 40 - 49
  • 50 - 59
  • 60 +
Race participants can begin checking in at 6:30 am the day of the race.
Late or walk-up registrations are welcome, with a $5 extra late fee.  (no t-shirt can be guaranteed after May 14th)
                     
Race start time is 8:00 am!

Why is it called the "Whirli-Run"?  
Wilson, NC is known for many things - good eastern NC barbeque, great southern living and Whirligigs!  Hometown folk artist, Vollis Simpson, creates whimsical, moveable art structures out of recycled metal.  The race start/finish line will be at the Paul V. Berry Park located in downtown Wilson at 200 Kenan Street with five whirligigs on site. Come back to Wilson in the fall to enjoy the annual Whirligig Festival, November 6-7, 2010. Learn more about the festival by visiting: http://www.wilsonwhirligigfestival.com/
 
 
Copyright © 2012 Wilson Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved.