Officers participate in Torch Run

The Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run took place last Friday morning, June 8. Runners from Fairfield County attended the annual event.

More than 1,200 law enforcement officers representing more than 100 communities across Connecticut participated.

This annual run -- which will cover 530 miles during the course of three days - aims to raise awareness and recognition for athletes of all abilities who will be participating in Special Olympics' Summer Games and the organization's year-round programs and competitions. Officers will also take part on bicycles and motorcycles, and some will drive in support patrol cars. In some areas Special Olympics athletes will run alongside the participating officers.

The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.