Torch Run For Special Olympics
June 5, 2014
WHO: Chief Ray J. Tarasovic
109th Basic Recruit Class
Richmond Police personnel
WHAT: Virginia Law Enforcement Torch Run – Capitol Leg
WHEN: 10 a.m. Friday, June 6
WHERE: Virginia State Capitol Bell Tower, Ninth and Franklin streets
BACKGROUND: Members of the Department’s 109th Basic Recruit Class, Richmond Police personnel and members of other area law enforcement agencies will participate in the Torch Run’s Capitol Leg, a 4.7-mile stretch west from the State Capitol to Fountain Lake in Byrd Park.
Richmond Police also will participate in the Torch Run’s Final Leg, starting 8 p.m., Friday, at the Tuckahoe Rescue Squad and ending at the University of Richmond Robins Center for the start of the Special Olympics games, which the Torch Run benefits.
“It is an honor to run the course following the Special Olympic torch,” said Captain Harvey Powers, the Department’s Torch Run coordinator. “That torch symbolizes the courage, determination and effort of Special Olympic athletes everywhere.”
This year marks a new course and destination for the participants. “We wanted to bring the torch and the spirit it represents to more people,” Captain Powers said. “This year our route takes us through Carytown before turning on Boulevard to conclude at Fountain Lake. The torch’s new course will provide many people with a vivid reminder of the resolve and inspiration of the athletes and the Games.”
This year law enforcement agencies in Virginia have raised over one million dollars to fund the important missions of Special Olympics.
