Orland Cops Take to 2 Wheels for Special Olympics

Orland Park Police Department officers are ready to ride.

Officials from the Orland Park Police Department are holding their annual Special Olympics Illinois benefit on Sunday, Aug. 28. Race check-in and registration begins at 6:30 a.m. with the ride rolling off at 7:30 a.m. Bikers will depart from and return to Gatto's, 8801 W. 143rd St. in Orland Park.

"The Orland Park Police Department is a great supporter of Special Olympics Illinois, participating in fundraising events throughout the year," Orland Park Mayor Dan McLaughlin said, in a news release. "Bike riders look forward to the August ride because it's a nicely paced, scenic Sunday morning trip through and around Orland Park."

The 14.4-mile course winds through Orland Park and convenes with the Tinley Creek Forest Preserve Trails. A water stop is held mid-way through the ride, which is not a race.

"Everyone is invited to join the police department's fundraising efforts for Special Olympics Illinois," said Trustee Dan Calandriello, chair of the village's Public Safety Committee. "This is a great ride for a great cause."

Refreshments will be available and a complimentary breakfast buffet with soft drinks and coffee will be available at Gatto's - Orland Park after the ride.

"Each summer, people ask when the ride will be held because it's become an annual favorite," said Chief Tim McCarthy. "It's not a race. It's leisurely paced and everyone remains together as a group," the chief said, adding that all participants are expected to wear bicycle helmets.

Pre-registration is available until July 31 and those meeting the deadline are guaranteed ride t-shirts. Registration forms are available at the Frederick T. Owens Village Hall, at the Police Station and on the village's website at http://goo.gl/i45CGz.

Completed registration forms must be returned to the Orland Park Police Department, 15100 South Ravinia Avenue. Cash, checks and credit cards may be used to register with checks made payable to Special Olympics Illinois. Registration will also be available the day of the event.Ron Kus, who serves as a telecommunications officer for the police department, coordinates the department's Special Olympics fundraising efforts.

"The bike patrol leads the group and we stop midway through for a water break. All of the proceeds are given to Special Olympics Illinois. It's a great event and we welcome everyone," Kus said.

The ride is open to those ages 12 years old and older. The per-person cost is $25.

The Orland Park Police Ride is co-sponsored by Gatto's Orland Park, the Orland Park Law Enforcement Organization, Silver Lake Country Club and the Orland Park Lions Club.Questions may be directed to rkus@orlandpark.org or by leaving a voice mail at 708/364-4925.