These free throws will cost you a buck, but will count as an invaluable good-deed-for-the-day.
Today is the final day to take part in the first “Shoot for Charity Challenge” taking place at the Esslinger Recreation Center from noon to 1 p.m. and 3 to 6 p.m. Anyone can participate in the event and all proceeds go to the Special Olympics.
This is how it works: $1 buys the participant three foul shots; if he or she sinks all three attempts, the shooter is entered in a drawing to win a $500 gift certificate from Valley River Center. If he or she hits two of three shots, he or she goes away with a free T-shirt and is entered in a drawing for a DVD player. One of three is good for entry in a drawing for several Nike watches.
If no shots fall, the participant is entered in a drawing for gift certificates and Nike apparel from the Bookstore.
“It’s not bad for just a buck,” event director Sean Tamashiro said. “A lot of people have been coming in. Everyone is having a lot of fun doing this and it’s for a great organization.”
Oregon coaches have made appearances at the event, including head football and basketball coaches Mike Bellotti and Ernie Kent.
“I love doing things like that for Special Olympics,” assistant women’s basketball coach Fred Litzenberger said. “This is a great deal. Free throws are something that anybody can do, it’s a chance to win some great prizes and make a contribution to a great organization.”
Tamashiro said he expects approximately $1,000 to be raised by the event.