World's Largest Truck Convoy raises all-time record for Special Olympics

RICHFIELD (WITI) -- If you saw what looked like a traffic jam on Highway 41 near Richfield on Saturday, September 20th -- don't worry, it's all for a good cause. It's the World's Largest Truck Convoy!

140 trucks, each with 18 wheels -- all on one mission. They gathered at the Pioneer Travel Plaza Saturday morning. Their plan is to form the largest truck convoy you've ever seen.

"It makes me really very happy, there are great people out here who are supporting these great athletes who are around the state of Wisconsin," said Special Olympics Athlete, TJ Lynch.

This is the 9th time they've done it to support Special Olympics of Wisconsin. TJ Lynch and Jerry Halboth are both athletes and look forward to this event each year.

"It just feels really great for us," said Lynch.

Halboth got the chance of a lifetime to ride inside of the trucks.

"It's been a dream come true. My grandfather used to drive semis for 45 years so following in the family footsteps," Halboth said.

Escorted by law enforcement, each truck marked with an orange ribbon will travel 53-miles from Richfield to Oshkosh.

"It makes us feel wonderful for doing it, their hugs and smiles are all we need," said truck drivers, Ron & Nith Mathiesen.

Ron & Nith Mathiesen's son has participated in Special Olympics, their grandson soon will too -- so for his 8th year, they will ride in the convoy to raise money.

"It just brings tears to your eyes when see the families and the athletes with their banners, it's awesome," said Ron & Nith Mathiesen.

It also means athletes like Jerry can continue to do what they love.

"Without Special Olympics I would have hung up my track shoes a long time ago," Halboth said.

Organizers say 165 trucks took part, and the event raised more that $121,000 -- which is the most they have ever raised.