Torch run coming up Sunday

Local police officers and Special Olympians will team up once again this Sunday (July 20) for the Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics.
The torch run will start at 2 p.m. (rain or shine) at the local OPP detachment, with participants then making their way to Tim Hortons.
Organizer Cst. Guy Beaudry, who’s been a part of the torch run for the past three years, said yesterday this is one of the major fundraising events for the Fort Frances Special Olympians.
They have been collecting pledges in anticipation of the event, and come Sunday will be joined by local OPP officers, as well as Corrections officers, Canada Border Services officers, and CN police.
Cst. Beaudry said the money raised offsets costs for athletes to participate in competitions in Northwestern Ontario and Manitoba, as well as meals, accommodations, and travel costs, which can be quite high.
He noted the public is encouraged to come out Sunday afternoon, whether they simply want to cheer on the Special Olympians and law enforcement officers or join in on the torch run themselves.
People are welcome to run, walk, jog, in-line skate, or bike if they choose. “The more, the merrier,” remarked Cst. Beaudry.
Special Olympians will be treated to a complimentary beverage and doughnut once they make it to Tim Hortons. After taking a break there, they either can run/walk back to the OPP detachment or catch a shuttle that will be provided.
Since 1987, the Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics has raised more than $20 million, enabling nearly 15, 000 Special Olympians to participate in various games.
The Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run is not only the number-one fundraising arm for Special Olympics Ontario, but a world-class program recognized Internationally for raising in excess of $1 million for a number of years.
Back in November, the program received the “Diamond Level of Excellence” Award at the International Law Enforcement Torch Run in Oklahoma City.