Write-Up & Photos by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.com

The Law Enforcement TORCH RUN For Special Olympics Connecticut made its way through Vernon heading into Manchester then on to Windsor Thursday, June 9, as part of a three-day journey which began in East Lyme Wednesday and will end in New Haven/Hamden Friday. It was gorgeous weather for a run – sunny skies with cool temperatures.

Runners were escorted along Routes 83 and 30 by cruisers from area towns and state trooper motorcycles – garnering plenty of attention. Calling attention to the Special Olympics movement is one of the main goals of the annual TORCH RUN which began in 1981 – the idea of a police chief in Kansas, according to the http://www.soct.org. Another goal is fundraising for the cause. Since it’s inception $500 million has been raised.

The Special Olympics TORCH RUN reportedly now takes place in 35 nations, including all fifty states of the United States and 12 Canadian provinces.

“It is a mission, a serious commitment by the law enforcement community to pay homage to our heroes – Connecticut athletes and their families,” states soct.org.

The 2016 Summer Games will be held June 10, 11 and 12 in New Haven/Hamden County.

Tip-A-Cop events also to benefit Connecticut Special Olympics are slated for spots throughout the state such as one by the South Windsor Police Department at the Red Onion Pizza & Family Restaurant in South Windsor on June 23 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; as well, Connecticut State Police Troop C will be waiting on tables from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Hidden Still in Ellington on June 30th.