'This Here Means A Lot': St. Patrick's Day Run Raises Funds For Special Olympics Of Oklahoma

A sea of green gathered outside RunnersWorld Tulsa on Brookside.

“Seen some colorful wigs, face paint, some nice green socks, so a lot of people have fun with it,” said Derek Cain.

Despite the distance from Ireland, the spirit of St. Patty’s was alive and well here in Tulsa for the 41st annual St. Patrick’s Day Run.

Among the participants are father and son, Dave and Roman Shaulis.

“I know he can outrun me,” said Dave.

"Leave him in the dust," added Roman. 

But they say they’re not just here to race and celebrate.

“This here means a lot,” said Dave.

They’re here for a bigger purpose.

“We hope to raise over $50,000 today for Special Olympics,” said Cain, the Special Olympics Oklahoma COO.

All the money raised through the race will stay right here in Oklahoma and help benefit the Special Olympics Oklahoma programs.

“Whatever dollar they raise, these kids, they benefit,” Dave said. 

Roman has Asperger's and has been competing in the Special Olympics since he was a kid.

Cain says its fundraisers like these keep athletes like Roman included.

“That's what Special Olympics is all about, inclusion. Getting our Special Olympic athletes integrated with the regular population,” he said. 

Roman says every dollar counts.

“It’s not just benefiting me, but like he said, it benefits all Special Olympics, so it’s going to a good cause,” he said. 

And every stride leaves a lasting impact on the athletes.