Police officers across Connecticut are collectively running for a cause. The annual torch run to support the Special Olympics commenced Wednesday and will continue through Friday. With legs spanning several towns, officers are spreading awareness and bringing attention to the capabilities and achievements of Special Olympics athletes.
Waterbury Police Officer Frank Lee summed it up: “I mean, we see a lot of bad. This is the good part of police work where we give back to the community.” This sentiment is mirrored by officers statewide who embrace the physical and symbolic weight of carrying the torch.
Debbie Horn of Special Olympics Connecticut emphasized the broader mission: “Raise awareness of Special Olympics, what our athletes are capable of doing and achieving in sport and in life. Also just to inspire more inclusion and acceptance of people of all abilities in our communities around the state and around the world.”
Highlighting the inclusive nature of the event, athletes themselves often join the run. Local celebrities also contribute, with familiar faces like Alyssa Taglia in Waterbury and Laura Hutchinson in Cheshire participating. Hutchinson expressed the joy of supporting: “When you have an opportunity to give back to the community and really see the athletes who just love that support, it makes it so worth it.”
Despite the challenging conditions, officers remain committed. “It’s extremely hot. It’s heavy, and when you’re running on a hot day, you’re sweating, all the fumes are running down your face,” said Cheshire Police Officer Lorin Webber but continued, “It can be painful, but you know what? It’s for a great cause.”
Cheshire Police Officer David Maliar added, “To see the group of athletes that have an opportunity to participate in sports that they may not otherwise have that opportunity, and it’s good to be a part of providing that joy to them.”
The torch run leads to the main event – the Special Olympics games happening this weekend at several local university campuses. For more details, visit Special Olympics Connecticut.
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