The Virginia Law Enforcement Torch Run benefiting Special Olympics Virginia took place in Winchester on Tuesday June 6, 2017, as runners made their way to Richmond for the Summer Games. Each summer, law enforcement officials from across Virginia carry the Flame of Hope on a 1,900 mile journey to the Special Olympics Virginia Summer Games Opening Ceremony in Richmond. The 8-day Torch Run involves more than 2,000 law enforcement officers and personnel representing law enforcement agencies across the Commonwealth.
The Northern Virginia Region 6 run started along the Old Town Mall. Runners traveled along Braddock Street, Cork Street, Washington Street, Handley Blvd., and south on Valley Avenue towards Kernstown to the Virginia State Police Barracks. The torch was passed on to the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office and carried to the Frederick County/Shenandoah County line.
The community was invited to cheer on the Winchester officers as they made their way through town. Special Olympic athletes from Handley High School also joined the team as they ran by Handley High School.
In addition to carrying the flame, the Winchester Police Department is raising money for Special Olympics Virginia. The team partnered with Mission BBQ for a fundraising event on May 25th. Additional donations to benefit Special Olympics can be made online at http://www.torchrunva.com/.
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