Special Olympics Torch Journeys Through Lakeland

The torch of the Florida Special Olympics made its annual trek through Lakeland yesterday as law enforcement officers from Lakeland PD and other county agencies escorted the torch around Lake Hollingsworth Friday evening in the 2008 Law Enforcement Torch Run.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Torch Run, an annual event for Lakeland PD Captain Tom Day who served once again as coordinator of the run.

The run is designed not only to escort the torch across the state enroute to the annual games, but to raise funds for Special Olympics. The 2008 Summer Olympic games will be held May 16 - 17 in Orlando at the Disney's Wide World of Sports® Complex and Champions Sports Complex.  Over 2,100 athletes will compete in bocce, cycling, soccer, tennis, track & field, and volleyball.

We wish the very best to every Special Olympian who will fulfill their dream this year of competing in the Games.

- Asst Chief Bill LePere