Teams pull massive, 124K-pound jet in Long Beach to raise money for Special Olympics athletes

Sunday, September 14, 2025
LONG BEACH, Calif. (KABC) -- It was a test of strength, stamina, and endurance in Long Beach on Saturday to see which team could pull a 62-ton jet the fastest.

The participants only had to move it 12 feet, but the plane weighs nearly 125,000 pounds.

More than 60 teams of 25 people went head-to-head to see who could move the UPS jet the fastest.

"I mean, look at the size of this thing. It is huge, but that's part of the beautiful thing, right? As an individual, it's really intimidating, but when you get lined up with your whole team, it's incredible when you feel that plane starting to move," said Dr. Nolan Chang, a physician with Kaiser Permanente and a board member for Special Olympics Southern California.

The friendly competition raised over $200,000 for Special Olympics Southern California -- a nonprofit organization that provides free year-round programs from sports training and competition to Special Olympics athletes.



"All of these programs help to empower our athletes and create inclusive communities," said Kelly Pond, the president and CEO of Special Olympics Southern California.

"It feels amazing being out here with my fellow athletes, all the amazing teams and support that we have that's coming out," said Special Olympics athlete Dustin Plunkett.

"For such a great cause, to be able to support these athletes, it just fills my heart," Chang said.

Saturday's event promoted inclusivity for all.

"I'm so excited to be with a great and powerful team," said Special Olympics athlete Jared Kozcak.



"It was amazing. Not the time that we wanted, but honestly, it wasn't for the time; it was just for the event. So we love coming out here and supporting special needs," said competitor Jeremy Scott.

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