Law Enforcement Torch Run Kick-Off Event for Special Olympics Spring Games

The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) Flame of Hope will be leaving Calgary tomorrow for a 150-kilometre journey Red Deer for the opening ceremonies of the Special Olympics Spring Provincial Games.

Guarded by members of local law enforcement, the Flame of Hope is a symbol of Special Olympics and signifies the commitment to bringing hope and light to competitors.

Members of several law enforcement agencies will take part in this event, which involves both cycling and running.

A group of officers will depart from Olympic Plaza at approximately 9: 45 a.m., on Friday, April 19, 2013, and run to the Max Bell Centre. From there the group will head north through Airdrie and Olds, with their final destination being Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School in Red Deer for the opening ceremonies at 7 p.m.

The send-off celebration is open to the public. Viewers can expect to see more than 50 law enforcement officials and Special Olympics athletes in attendance.

The mission of the LETR is to raise awareness and funds for the Special Olympics movement worldwide.

To date, Special Olympics is still the charity of choice for law enforcement worldwide and the torch run is active in 35 countries, including Canada. On average, the LETR raises roughly $35 million a year for Special Olympics programs.

For more information on the Alberta LETR movement, visit www.albertatorchrun.ca