Sunday, January 30th, the Wertz Warriors will take off on their annual week-long, 900-mile snowmobile endurance ride from Clinton Township to Mackinaw City, raising money and awareness for Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI). This year marks the 40th ride of the Wertz Warriors.
“The Wertz Warriors are the largest fundraising organization in the state of Michigan that supports Special Olympics Michigan,” said T.J. Grunwald, Wertz Warriors Board Member. “When you take the trip and get to meet the athletes, you really see what this is all about. It changes your perspective on everything.”
Former Detroit Tiger and Michigan Hall of Fame member Vic Wertz formed Wertz Warriors in 1981 with a dream of underwriting the Special Olympics Michigan State Winter Games. The idea was to create an endurance snowmobile ride throughout northern Michigan that would help raise funds and awareness for those with intellectual disabilities. Since the inaugural ride in 1982, Wertz Warriors has raised more than $12.2 million for Special Olympics Michigan athletes.
Luther Bradley, former Detroit Lions defensive back and Eric Hipple, former Detroit Lions Quarterback are hoping to make appearances along the route. Both have been with the Warriors in the past and plan to continue in the future.
The Wertz Warriors are looking for riders to join the cause. Riders who participate will enjoy touring northern Michigan. Click here for more information on the Wertz Warriors.