41st Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run marks start of Kansas Special Olympics

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) -Marking the beginning of the Kansas Particular Olympics, Wichitans participated within the forty first Annual Legislation Enforcement Torch Run.

The hassle, elevating cash for the Kanas Particular Olympics, is one thing former Wichita Police Chief and Legislation Enforcement Torch Run founder Richard LaMunyon mentioned he appears to be like ahead to yearly. how the occasion has grown, LaMunyan mentioned he’s humbled.

“I’m thrilled due to it and I’m honored to be a part of it,” he mentioned.

With this weekend kicking off the beginning for the Particular Olympics, the torch run is a race that acts as a lighting ceremony for the video games. Native regulation enforcement, together with members of the Wichita Police Division are among the many individuals.

“I imply, I’ve been doing this for happening 17 years now, and simply figuring out what we are able to do for the athletes simply by operating the torch is superb,” mentioned Wichita Police Lt. Chris Moore. “And that’s what we need to spend time doing is elevating cash and consciousness for Particular Olympics athletes to allow them to higher their lives by means of sports activities, by means of wholesome athletes and thru something that we are able to do for them.”

Torch-run individuals began at Wichita Metropolis Corridor downtown and have been escorted by regulation enforcement for the close to three-mile run. It completed at Riverfront Stadium. Contributors bumped into the stadium, kicking off the video games and greeting athletes.

Kansas Particular Olympics President and CEO John Lair mentioned the group wouldn’t be capable to give athletes this chance with out the assistance of those that wo race within the Torch Run.

‘The Torch Run actually helps us out so much. They increase about $750,000 statewide for the state program, so we couldn’t do no matter we do all year long with out these guys,” Lair mentioned.

Athletes mentioned they’re excited to compete. The Kansas Particular Olympics kick off Saturday in Maize.

“I simply ask if in case you have an opportunity come out to Maize South and cheer us on,” mentioned an athlete named Steven, a Particular Olympics competitor and ambassador. These wishing to donate to the Particular Olympics can achieve this on the group’s web site.

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