400+ San Diego County Law Enforcement to Participate in Torch Run

The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) is a yearly event where San Diego County law enforcement agencies carry the Special Olympics Flame of Hope through San Diego County where it eventually reaches its final destination at the Summer Games in Los Angeles. 

The ceremonial lighting of the Torch will begin on May 27 at 9:30 a.m. at the Chula Vista Police Department Memorial Wall located at 315 Fourth Avenue in Chula Vista. After the ceremony, officers will begin the first leg of the run that starts at 10:15 a.m. and continues through Del Mar until the Torch is laid to rest for the evening. 

The final leg of the LETR will begin at 6:30 a.m. on May 28 and end with Camp Pendleton Marines running the Torch through the base and handing it off to the Orange County Sherriff’s Department.    

Law enforcement collects donations for their participation in the LETR and are sponsored by civic groups, local businesses and generous donors.  Forty-eight nations participate in the LETR and more than 142,000 law enforcement officers volunteer their time for this event. The LETR has become the largest grassroots fundraiser for Special Olympics and has raised 43 million dollars worldwide in 2012.

“I first became involved in the Law Enforcement Torch Run nine years ago. I quickly learned that it was so much more than just a run. It’s an inspiring opportunity to partner up with Special Olympics to raise awareness and funds for our Special Athletes” said Sgt. Dan Hollister, San Diego Police Department. “Whether it’s a Tip A Cop, Polar Plunge, or any fund raising event, it truly makes you feel good to support such wonderful athletes. The smiles, handshakes, and hugs from special athletes and their families keeps me coming back and wanting to do more.”

The public is encouraged to attend the opening ceremony where various San Diego County police chiefs will speak to the community about the LETR. Erik Weber, an award-winning Special Olympics athlete and Global Messenger for Special Olympics, will also be speaking at the ceremony.

—Special Olympics of Southern California