Law enforcement Torch Run lights the way for Special Olympics athletes

 

Starting at the U.S. Port of Entry Pigeon River border crossing in Grand Portage, Cook County Law Enforcement and friends carried the Flame of Hope to Grand Marais and then through Cook County last Monday, June 19, passing the torch to fellow law enforcement in Lake County.

Taking part in the run was Paul Spry (Cook County Sheriff ’s Office), Kristi Perales (US Customs and Border Protection), Drew Olson (MN State Patrol) and Ed Belmore (USFS Law Enforcement).

In Grand Marais the runners stopped at the World’s Best Donuts for a picture and then the crowd who had gathered walked to Java Moose for a short speech and then the torch was on its way towards Lake County. Mike Pauly (US Customs and Border Enforcement) was on hand for the proceedings.

When the relay ends on June 23 at the Special Olympics Minnesota Track and Field Summer Games at Stillwater High School, the “Flame of Hope” had been carried a combined 925 miles through Minnesota.

According to the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) website, “The Flame of Hope symbolizes courage and celebration of diversity and the inclusion of all people worldwide. The Torch Run is the largest grassroots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle for Special Olympics worldwide.”

Since its beginning in 1981, the LETR has grown with more than 97,000 law enforcement members in 44 countries, including all 50 states and 12 Canadian provinces that have cared for the flame. After 35 years, the torch run has raised more than $619 million, with the funds used so athletes can train and compete in competitions.

Special Olympic LETR events also includes other fundraising platforms such as Plane Pulls, Polar Plunges, Tip-A-Cops, and more, raising more than $600 million for Special Olympics programs.

Every two years, a Special Olympics is held somewhere in the world. In 2026, Minnesota will host the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, featuring athletes from Canada the Caribbean and U.S.

The Torch Run includes all 50 states, 10 Canadian Provinces, and 35 nations.

The state goal of the LETR is to “raise awareness and funds for the Special Olympics movement.”