The inaugural Bus Pull to support Special Olympics Michigan Area 8 — covering Ingham and Eaton counties — was held Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, at Grand Ledge High School. Seven teams of 10 competed to pull a 26,000-pound Dean Transportation school bus 50 feet the fastest.
While teams were primarily competing for the fastest bus pull, prizes were also awarded for the slowest team pull, the team raising the most funds and the most spirited team. Through this event, nearly $16,000 was raised to support Special Olympics athletes of Ingham and Eaton counties.
The fastest team, Unified for the Win, clocked in with an impressive 10.56 seconds. Members of the Dean Transportation Fleet Team formed one of the competing teams, clocking a time of 10.82 seconds, and brought home the Most Spirited Team award, in part thanks to their families and friends who eagerly cheered them on.
“Participating in the Special Olympics Area 8 Bus Pull as part of the Dean Team was truly an incredible experience,” said Jim Prang, director of fleet maintenance. “It was heartwarming to know that our efforts will directly benefit Special Olympics athletes. I am already looking forward to next year’s event and the opportunity to make a positive impact once again.”
Dean has been proudly partnering with Special Olympics for decades to support the organization and athletes in their mission. Special Olympics Michigan provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities through the support of caring volunteers, coaches, family members and staff.
