Special Olympics Torch Passes Through Livermore

LIVERMORE, CA — The torch to the Special Olympics Northern California passed through Livermore Wednesday, just like it has for over 30 years.

The city welcomed the torch with its two-mile long Torch Run, which circled from the Nob Hill parking lot through downtown to the Livermore Police Department. Special Olympic athletes and members of the Livermore Police Department, CHP Dublin, and LPD volunteers participated. Livermore native and Special Olympics athlete Ryan Butterly took part, as he has every year for the past eight years.

“The Livermore Police Department is proud to participate in the Law Enforcement Torch Run every year and escort the “Flame of Hope” through the Livermore community on its journey to the Summer Games. We wish all the athletes the best and commend them for their bravery and for trying their personal best,” the department said in a statement.

The Special Olympics Northern California Summer Games start Friday at Santa Clara University’s Stevens Stadium, and will last through the weekend. Friday evening will see an opening ceremony consisting of 49ers Hall of Famer Bryant Young, a show by singer Frankie Moreno, and a performance by dancer Lacey Schwimmer.

Saturday and Sunday will feature a number of competitions, including track and field, bocce, swimming and tennis.

Visit sonc.org for more information.