More than 50 people took part in Chilliwack's stretch of the Law Enforcement Torch Run Tuesday morning to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics B.C.
Featuring local members of the RCMP, along with staff members and members of the community, the group of runners and walkers made their way towards the Pacific Region Training Centre as they carried the Special Olympics B.C. torch and chanted along the way.
"Law enforcement officials throughout the Lower Mainland will be participating in the British Columbia Law Enforcement Torch Run from June 5 to 8 within their own communities," said Cpl. Tammy Hollingsworth. "We encourage everyone to come out and support our Special Olympics athletes and cheer on these inspiring runners and walkers for such a great cause."
The Law Enforcement Torch Run began in 1981 in Wichita, Kansas, and it started in B.C. in 1990. Locally, it has been instrumental in raising money and awareness for Special Olympics B.C. athletes and programs. This year's Chilliwack torch run featured Special Olympics track athlete Pat Johnson.
The torch run is now the largest fundraiser and public awareness vehicle in the Special Olympics movement, with more than 85,000 officers in 35 countries. They have raised more than $38 million dollars for Special Olympics.