By Tim Schmidt Record Managing Editor When local police officers make their rounds next week, they will be doing so with one objective in mind. Raising awareness about Special Olympics. The fifth annual Warren County Law Enforcement Torch Run will be held Wednesday, May 28, beginning at 9:45 a.m. at Fastlane in Foristell. The 14 1/2-mile run will end at Warrenton City Hall. Runners are expected to reach city hall around 12:15-12:30 p.m. So far, 22 runners have registered to participate, representing the Warrenton, Wright City and Foristell police departments and the Warren County Sheriff’s Department. 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. Local athletes from Warren County Handicapped Services will run alongside the police officers in the final leg to city hall. “From the athlete standpoint, it gives them something to get excited about every year,” Warrenton Police Chief Greg Houdyshell said. “That is what it’s about. It’s about raising awareness. It helps (the athletes) get excited and something to look forward to. For us, it gets us excited about our mission to help raise funds and raise awareness in Warren County.” Following the run, a small ceremony will be held outside of city hall following the run. This year’s keynote speaker will be 2013 Miss Missouri Ellie Holtman, a graduate of Montgomery County High School. Runners will primarily run on the service roads from Foristell to Warrenton. The course includes an opportunity to run by schools in Wright City and Warrenton, where students are expected to show their support. Houdyshell encourages the public to cheer runners on along the route or attend the ceremony at the conclusion of the run. “It’s always encouraging for people to be out along the route,” he said. “It’s definitely huge to have anybody learning more about Special Olympics and to meet the athletes at the reception.” Houdyshell said he appreciates the amount of time and work spent to continue making the torch run a success. “Everybody comes together for this and volunteers their time,” he said. Individuals can make a tax-deductible donation by visiting the law enforcement agency of their choice, Houdyshell said. Commemorative T-shirts can also be purchased at the various agencies. A short-sleeve T-shirt (XL or smaller) costs $10. Proceeds from the sales will be donated to Special Olympics.
2014 Torch Run
