First Responders across the state carried ceremonial torches on runs to raise funds for Special Olympics Missouri on May 23. Warren County police officers carried the torch with Special Olympics athletes from Diekroeger Park in Wright City to the City Annex Building in Warrenton. 

“This event is more than a relay,” said Wright City Police Lieutenant Aaron Sutton. “It’s a powerful symbol of unity, courage and unwavering community support.”

Athletes with the Warren County Pathfinders and first responders from agencies around the county had gathered at Diekroeger Park that morning to prepare for their run. 

Sutton said the torch run, which was started in 1981, has grown to a worldwide event enlisting the help of over 97,000 officers and has helped to raise over $1 million annually in the state. 

With the runners leading the charge and carrying the torch, they passed through the county flanked by buses and vehicles from law enforcement agencies like the Wright City Police Department, the Warrenton Police Department, the Truesdale Police Department and the Warren County Sheriff’s Department. 

Warren County Pathfinders works with Special Olympics Missouri to get their athletes involved and help the individuals in their programs develop independence and build lasting bonds with other community members. 

Dillon Mayfield, the day program coordinator with Warren County Pathfinders said the Special Olympics play a vital role in their programs helping to keep those involved physically fit and helping them to build confidence through their achievements. 

“It’s really about inclusion, so, getting out there and showing everyone that they can do whatever anyone else can do,” said Mayfield. 

He also lauded the police officers’ involvement with the program both helping to fundraise and serving as role models for the individuals in their programs. 

“Special Olympics runs on getting those donations, without the support of our officers doing the torch run we wouldn’t be able to host all these events that we have,” said Mayfield. 

Sutton, however, extended his gratitude and praise to the athletes in attendance that day, along with the coaches and family members that helped them on their journey. 

“You guys, our athletes, are the heart of this movement,” said Sutton. “Their determination and resilience inspires us all. They remind us that with support and opportunity, greatness is within reach.”

Some of the athletes in attendance also expressed their gratitude towards the officers and other organizers who helped provide them with the opportunity to compete. 

T.J. Wilson, a swimmer in the Special Olympics said the opportunity to compete makes him happy and his involvement in the sport “makes (him) a better man.”

Towards the end of the day’s events, attendees also received a visit from a special guest as Fredbird with the St. Louis Cardinals arrived to take photos and hang out with the athletes. 

“Each interaction with our athletes shows us the true meaning of character and what real joy looks like,” said Sutton. “Behind every athlete stands a team of dedicated coaches and volunteers. Their commitment ensures our athletes are prepared, confident and ready to shine, their selfless contributions embody the very spirit of community service.”