GREENVILLE, S.C. (Nov. 3, 2003) — The Bib bobblehead came up a winner for the Special Olympics.
Michelin North America (MNA) Inc. raised $250,000 in the past several months for the Special Olympics through the sale and auction of bobblehead dolls in the image of Bibendum, the roly-poly Michelin Man.
Michelin presented a check for the quarter million dollars Nov. 1 to Jim Smutz, managing director of Special Olympics North America, at ceremonies marking the opening of the South Carolina Fall Games in Spartanburg.
Michelin sold nearly 100,000 Bib bobbleheads through online sales and through authorized Michelin dealers in the U.S. Bibendum himself got in on the action, auctioning off his own private bobblehead collection, which included a range of dolls from Mickey Mantle to Dick Tracy.
“Michelin is thrilled to provide support for the Special Olympics…,” said Sheryl Henderson, director of Michelin brand for Greenville-based MNA. “It's evident that the athletes who participate in these games have the same passion we do for being the best.”
Special Olympics South Carolina Inc. provides year-round olympic-type sports training and competition for more than 15,500 children and adults with intellectual disabilities in all of South Carolina's 46 counties.
“Michelin's gift will enable Special Olympics athletes around the country to experience the excitement and rewards of friendly competition,” Mr. Smutz said.
Michelin Man bobblehead dolls are still available online at www.michelinman.com.