By Tim SchmidtRecord Managing EditorIt was a phone call that left Warrenton Police Chief Greg Houdyshell emotional.It also served as a reminder of all the good things that have come from organizing the annual Warren County Law Enforcement Torch Run.Earlier this month, Houdyshell learned he’d been nominated as a Missouri delegate to attend the 2015 International Law Enforcement Torch Run Conference, scheduled to be held Oct. 1-3 in the Bahamas.“It’s something I wanted to do, but we have never had the fundraising levels to be able to go to it,” he said. “To be given this opportunity is a huge honor and I hope to bring back a lot of good ideas and a lot of momentum to go forward and do better things.”The conference will allow Houdyshell an opportunity to network with other Torch Run representatives from all across the world. While there, they will review new and unique ways to raise funds for Special Olympics, he said.In the past five years, the local Torch Run effort and other fundraising activities have raised approximately $15,000 for Special Olympics. This year’s event is expected to raise the most money of any single year.The local Torch Run will be held Wednesday, May 27, beginning at 10 a.m. at Fastlane in Foristell. The run will end at Warrenton City Hall. Runners representing multiple law enforcement agencies in the county are expected to reach city hall around 12:15-12:30 p.m.Participants will run on the I-70 South Service Road from Foristell to Warrenton, and then head south on Highway 47 to the finish line on Main Street.The Torch Run is a statewide event that leads up to the start of the Special Olympics state games. All funds raised go toward supporting Special Olympics’ year-round sports training and athletic competitions.Following the run, a small ceremony will be held outside of city hall. Houdyshell said the event’s first corporate sponsor will make a donation at that time.Individuals or groups can make a tax-deductible donation by visiting the law enforcement agency of their choice, Houdyshell said.A raffle for a 40-inch LED television donated by Walmart also will be held. Tickets cost $5 for one and $20 for five and can be purchased at the Warrenton Police Department and local businesses. All proceeds will be donated to Special Olympics.Houdyshell said the objective remains the same from when the torch run first started in 2010.“It’s not so much about fundraising as it is increasing awareness,” he remarked. “It’s a special feeling when you are around the Special Olympics athletes and the appreciation they have for what we are doing. To me, that is what makes it all worthwhile and I think everyone involved would say the same thing.”Torch Run