Special Olympics Torch Will Cross By Boat From New London To Groton

The torch carried during the Law Enforcement Torch Run for the Special Olympics will cross by boat from New London to Groton for the first time in the event's 25-year history, Groton City Police Officer Ron Jenkins said.

"We've always driven it over the Gold Star Bridge to Groton City," Jenkins said. This year, he said the Coast Guard will provide a boat to transport the torch across the water on June 8. A Groton City boat will also accompany the Coast Guard during the run.

The Torch Run will cover more than 530 miles and take the torch through 100 Connecticut cities and towns, including Groton. More than 1,500 officers representing local, state and federal agencies, as well as Special Olympics athletes will take part in the event.

Groton Town Police Deputy Chief Michael Crowley runs each year, and will pass the torch to Stonington Police at the Mystic drawbridge.

“We’ve been doing the torch run here since well before I got hired,” said Kelly Crandall, investigator for Groton Town Police. “Our officers run with other law enforcement for Special Olympics. We believe it’s a great group of people who are involved in the Special Olympics and we like to show our support for them.”