Special Olympics - Training for Life
The first Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics was held in West Virginia in 1986. This one day, one leg event had 37 runners and covered 89 miles. Over $6,600 was raised for Special Olympics.
The second annual Law Enforcement Torch Run was increased to a three day, five leg event covering 400 miles.
One hundred and thirty law enforcement officers representing municipal departments, sheriff's departments, correctional guards, the Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement, judges, prosecuting attorneys, state troopers and the Federal Bureau of Investigation ran the Flame of Hope to Huntington, West Virginia.
Funds are raised through sponsorships from local citizens, corporations, special events, and state sponsors.
Participation
Some participating law enforcement officers also take part in the opening ceremonies by marching into the stadium and flanking the stage. The officers then form an honor guard for Special Olympiads to pass through prior to the lighting of the Special Olympics Caldron.
