Professional athletes from the Raiders and A’s joined local businessmen and supporters of Special Olympics Northern California rolled the dice at the ninth annual Monte Carlo Night at Round Hill Country Club recently. The funds raised will be used to provide Special Olympics athletes the opportunity to participate in 17 different sports throughout the year at no cost. Ron and Don Dirito of Dirito Brothers are the title sponsors of the event.
As usual the real “stars” of the night were the Special Olympic Athletes/Global Ambassadors. As Global Ambassadors for Special Olympics, these Gold Medal winning multitalented athletes have been selected to speak to various businesses and organizations about winning and overcoming adversity.
National champion golfer and local Danville resident MJ Mc Colgan and five of his fellow Global Ambassadors were adopted in the auction at $250 per person by many of the 400 attendees. In addition, the Oakland A’s organization matched the entire bid.
The highlight of the night was when Global Ambassador Ryan Ependenio and his father received a standing ovation for their inspiring speeches about their personal experiences with Special Olympics. Tears of joy filled the room as Kevin’s heart-warming words brought smiles to the entire audience. Special Olympic’s motto of “Inspire Greatness” was definitely alive and well at Round Hill Country Club as the local celebrities, volunteers, committee members and sponsors made the 2005 Monte Carlo night another huge success.
For more information about Special Olympics, including volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, contact the East Bay region Office at 944-8801 or visit the Web site at www.sonc.org.
