The average 737 airplane weighs at least 50 tons or 100,000 pounds.
Imagine trying to pull one with your bare hands!
Despite the daunting task, Gabriel Homes residents, who won medals at the state powerlifting competition over the summer, were up for the challenge. The team successfully pulled a plane at Dulles Airport to raise money for Special Olympics Virginia. With over two dozen teams registered to pull planes, the event raised over $580,000.
The Special Olympics powerlifting team was the first to pull.
In 80-plus degree weather and no clouds in sight, residents had no complaints pulling first. The team spread out on different sides and positions of the pulling rope and got into forms ready to pull the plane. Led by coach Bill Whiteside, the group pulled in rhythm to use their full strength.
“Pulling a plane doesn’t feel much different compared to our usual training,” Bill joked. “We’re happy everyone was able to join us at Dulles and make a difference for our athletes.”
Many of the powerlifters take part in the plane pull every year. They weren’t alone, either: John, Stephen, Gabe, and Shelby may not compete in lifting, but they were loud when they cheered during the residents’ pull.
Celebrating the Plane Pull
The powerlifters received badges from Fairfax County Police after pulling the plane. Residents saw them as tokens of strength for moving the aircraft.
“I show off my badge to everybody I meet!” said Patrick, another powerlifter and resident. “I get a burst of energy at Dulles when everyone watches us. I can’t wait for next year’s plane pull.”