All around the world, Special Olympics has a formidable and caring legion of protectors and supporters: the law enforcement community. The signature event of the law enforcement community’s year-round support is the annual Final Leg of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Florida.
Since 1987, law enforcement officers from around the world have participated in the Final Leg of the Law Enforcement Torch Run prior to the Special Olympics World Summer and Winter Games. The tradition of the Final Leg Torch Run is for law enforcement officers representing their country, state and Torch Run Program, to act as “Guardians of the Flame” and carry the Special Olympics Torch and “Flame of Hope” to the Opening Ceremonies of the Special Olympics Games.
This Torch Run event is called the Final Leg because it represents the culmination of Torch Run events that have occurred previously throughout the World. The Torch Run Final Leg is not only a salute to the athletes from around the World who will compete in the Special Olympics World Summer Games, but also an honor for the participating law enforcement officers and Special Olympics athletes who comprise the Torch Run Final Leg Team.
The Olympic flame symbolizes the light of spirit, knowledge and life. With identical power and majesty, the Special Olympics “Flame of Hope,” in the entrusted care of the law enforcement community, symbolizes the courage and celebration of diversity that the Special Olympics movement represents.
The Florida Law Enforcement Torch Run is the largest annual public relations and fund-raising event for Special Olympics Florida. Statewide, the participating chiefs, officers, sheriffs, deputies, agents and cadets from virtually every branch of federal, state, county and municipal law enforcement, represent a total of over 300 different agencies.
Funds are generated through the sale of the popular Torch Run T-shirts and hats, and through various local fundraising events. You can support Special Olympics Florida and your local law enforcement agency by taking part in one of the many fun events they hold throughout the year or by buying this year’s Law Enforcement Torch Run commemorative t-shirt or hat.
The 2019 Final Leg of the Law Enforcement Torch Run will again take place on May 17 in Celebration on Market Street, beginning at approximately 7 p.m.
Please come out along the route along Celebration Avenue towards U.S. 192 to cheer on and support the law officers make their way running from Celebration to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex for the lighting of the flame at the Special Olympics Opening Ceremonies. The Special Olympics Summer Games will be held at ESPN Wide World of Sports on May 17 and 18. This police escorted torch run is truly a sight to see and hear. Hope to see you there.