The annual Torch Run for Special Olympics involved law enforcement officers from multiple agencies.
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OKEECHOBEE -- The 2022 annual Torch Run for Special Olympics took place on April 8 and involved law enforcement officers from multiple agencies.
Beginning at 8 a.m. in front of the sheriff's office, they ran 3.1 miles, ending in the Publix parking lot with a celebratory lap around the parking lot where they were joined by Special Olympic athletes.
Prior to the race, the sheriff's office sold t-shirts to anyone who wanted to wear one in solidarity with the athletes.
Special Olympic athletes ride a bus behind the athletes and cheer them on as they run. As the runners near the end, the bus passes them and unloads at Publix where the runners are able to join the race.
More than 50 Special athletes from the high school and middle schools were participated this year and had a great time, said Bernard Marker.
After the run, athletes were treated to a barbecue lunch. Members of the community were able to purchase rib dinners for $12 or a full slab of ribs for $15. The event was sold out, and 100% of the proceeds went to the Special Olympics.
Okeechobee's Special Olympics coordinator Bernard Marker said local athletes appreciate everyone's support.
The 2022 run was Okeechobee's 13th, although the one in 2020 ended up being canceled due to covid, and the 2021 run was scaled down version for the same reason. Both law enforcement athletes and Special Olypic athletes were happy to have things back to normal this year.