Chatham Carries The Torch For Special Olympics In Annual Run

CHATHAM, NJ — A select group of police ran through Chatham as participants in the New Jersey Law Enforcement Torch Run, which raises funds to support all the special needs athletes participating in the NJ Special Olympics Summer Games.

The School District of the Chathams closed out the last day of school this year by supporting the 40th annual statewide law enforcement Torch Run, which was scheduled to go by all six Chatham schools on Thursday, June 8, but had to be rescheduled due to air quality levels from the Canadian wildfires.

However, the air quality improved enough on Friday, June 9, for ten staff members, including Superintendent Dr. LaSusa, to participate in a modified torch run.

"Although it was disappointing that students were unable to participate as runners and spectators during this milestone anniversary year, Chatham High School Assistant Principal, Lori Gironda, commented that she looks forward to including students again in 2024 and running the full-face route," Chatham school officials said.

Sergeant Muta Blanford of the Chatham Township Police Department presented Gironda with a plaque in recognition of her contributions to the organization of this annual event.

Chatham students and staff members raised nearly $600 this year for the Special Olympics through the Torch Run. The school district was also able to use wellness grant funding from the School Health Insurance Fund to sponsor staff members in the torch run.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics began in 1981 and has since grown to become the largest public awareness vehicle and grass-roots fundraiser for Special Olympics.

Law enforcement officers and Special Olympics athletes, known as Guardians of the Flame, carry the Flame of Hope into the opening ceremony of the New Jersey competition, as well as competitions at the national, regional and world levels.

More than 3,000 officers participated in 26 legs of this year's run, according to Special Olympics NJ. Spectators were invited to watch the flame as it was carried through their town, and to cheer on the officers on their journey.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics New Jersey is recognized as a global fundraising leader, having raised more than $4.1 million for Special Olympics New Jersey athletes in 2018.