Law Enforcement Torch Run in Merced raises awareness for Special Olympics
Law enforcement officers from throughout Merced County took to the City of Merced streets Wednesday for the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Northern California.
Special Olympics athletes and law enforcement officers carried the torch known as the “Flame of Hope” as they ran the 3.5-mile route through the City of Merced.
This year’s route started at Bob Hart Square and took participants west along West Main Street before turning onto R Street and running north to West Olive Avenue. Runners then ran east to M Street before turning onto West Main Street and ending back at Bob Hart Square.
The Special Olympics Northern California serves to provide both children and adults with physical and intellectual disabilities opportunities to participate in various sports. The annual run is held to raise money and awareness for the organization.
According to Merced area California Highway Patrol Officer Eric Zuniga, the money raised form the torch run allows the athletes and their families to compete in Special Olympics at no cost to them.
“It funds everything from basically their meals, to their hotels to everything,” said Zuniga.
The event is something Zuniga said he looks forward to participating in every year.
“I’ve been doing this for seven years now and it’s one of those things where I always check the box and have that day ready to go. If on vacation or not, I’m going to be here,” said Zuniga.
Prior to the run, Merced Police Chief Steven Stanfield spoke about the history of the event and how the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics began in 1981 when it was created by Police Chief Richard LaMunyon in Wichita Kansas.
In 1983 LaMunyon presented the program to the International Association of Chief’s of Police, who endorsed the torch run and became the founding law enforcement organization. In total, more than 97,000 law enforcement members carry the “Flame of Hope” annually, according to Stanfield.
“To the athletes, on behalf of the Merced police Department and the greater Merced Community we are so very proud of each and every one of you,” said Stanfield. “You make us proud and this city loves and stands beside you.”
Donations can be made through the Special Olympics Northern California website.
