The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics is returning to St. Thomas on Wednesday, September 10th, with local police inviting the community to come out and cheer on our athletes.
The run will begin at the west end of the city around 10:30 a.m., where officers and personnel from St. Thomas, Aylmer, and Elgin OPP will join Special Olympics athletes for the journey downtown, explains St. Thomas Police Inspector Kim Manuel.
Following the run, athletes and participants are set to gather at police headquarters for a celebratory barbecue. And while Manuel says the run itself is reserved for officers and athletes, the community plays an important role.
Along with the Law Enforcement Torch Run, the St. Thomas Police Service also supports Special Olympics in a number of ways throughout the year. This includes through pick-up games with officers and events such as the annual Polar Plunge.
But for Manuel, in terms of what she loves most about working with these athletes, is the connections formed over her 26-year career.
The Torch Run is part of a global initiative that unites law enforcement with Special Olympics athletes to raise awareness, promote inclusion, and celebrate resilience.
The St. Thomas Police Service is encouraging residents to line Talbot Street on September 10th and show their support.
To learn more about the Law Enforcement Torch Run, click here.
Written by: Kennedy Freeman
