Torch Run Kicks Off Special Olympics
POSTED: Tuesday, April 21, 2009
UPDATED: 12:19 am EDT April 22,
2009
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- With a police escort leading the way, local crime fighters carried a special symbol through downtown Jacksonville Tuesday morning, for the Special Olympics Torch Run.
The three-mile run marked the start of the opening ceremonies of the Duval County Special Olympics. While the run was short for some, it was very meaningful for others."In police work we try to stay in shape and running three miles, for most people, isn't that big of a challenge," said Undersheriff Frank Mackesy, of the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. "But with these Olympians, running three miles is a gold medal opportunity for them."The run started at police headquarters, and ended at the Jacksonville Landing. Only some of the Special Olympians ran the full course."We have some of our higher functioning athletes run the three miles. I think we had about 15 to 20 athletes do that," said Julie Pierce, director of Duval County's Special Olympics. Others, escorted by volunteers, walked a mile to the finish line.Olympians enjoy the physical activity and being amongst others. For officers, the chance to be in the community, promoting health and fitness across society, is refreshing."The people see police officers in a different light other than out there enforcing the law," said Mackesy.The Torch Run also serves as a fundraiser for the Special Olympics. Last year, JSO, along with other participating agencies, raised more than $8,000.
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