Carrying the torch
- John Fitts
- Jun 27
- 3 min read
Valley Police Departments participate in Special Olympics Torch Run
Local police departments once again participated in the Connecticut Law Enforcement Torch run this June. Now in its 40th year, the event involves three days when local officers along 10 different routes – or legs– run through their towns. Those legs ultimately converge for a final run to kick off the Connecticut Special Olympics Summer Games.
On June 4, one leg of the run came through Avon, Canton and Simsbury, while another came through Farmington.
During the run, law enforcement personnel – sometimes joined by athletes, family members and others – carry what is known as the Flame of Hope along the route.
The event is a vital fundraiser for Special Olympics in the state. Many departments get local businesses to “Adopt a Mile,” with signs along the route. In Canton, for example, officer Amelia Packard led an Adopt-A-Mile effort that raised $26,000.
But the effort goes well beyond the torch run as all local town departments participate in many other events throughout the year.
“Avon PD has raised approximately $18,000 so far this year participating in the Penguin Plunge, Tip-a-Cop events, a purse bingo event, and selling the Torch Run T-shirts,” said Avon Sgt. Erin Connole. “We will plan to host and participate in additional events this year, with a goal of raising $25,000 this year.”
In Simsbury, Department cadets participated this year in a mobile Penguin Plunge at Simsbury High School, sponsored by Unified Sports Program at the School. Officers also participated in Jersey Mike’s Day and month of Giving for Special Olympics.
Local officers also participate in other ways. Some travel down to the final leg of the Torch Run to help kick off the summer games and others participate there as well. Simsbury Police Chief Nicholas Boulter, for example, handed out medals at this year’s games.
In all, the torch run and other annual events help support a great cause and strengthen connections among the departments and community.
Simsbury Sgt. Laurel Harrington’s cousin has been a Special Olympics athlete for more than 30 years. It’s one of the many personal connections that officers throughout the valley have.
“A lot of us, I think, have that personal connection to athletes who we’ve seen just how it benefits,” she said.
And the event also helps build comradery among and within departments, all for a great cause.
“Everyone kind of supports each other,” added Harrington, “Ultimately the whole goal is to support the athletes and just bring awareness.” VL
Photos by John Fitts
