| Contact: Amy Hasenberg, (608) 266-2839 |
| Statewide Relay Kicks Off Wisconsin Special Olympics State Summer Games |
| WAUKESHA – Governor Scott Walker joined law enforcement officers, Special Olympics athletes and volunteers, and their families and supporters today in Waukesha for the 32nd annual Law Enforcement Torch Run. The annual statewide relay kicks off the Wisconsin Special Olympics State Summer Games.
“Wisconsin’s Special Olympics show the world that individuals with disabilities are extraordinary,” said Governor Walker. “The Special Olympics and the Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run have always held a special place in my heart because they bring together truly talented Wisconsinites and law enforcement officers from around the state. It’s an honor to participate in and help open the 2018 Special Olympic State Summer Games.” Every year, Wisconsin law enforcement officers are partnered with Special Olympics athletes for the Law Enforcement Torch Run. The pairs run the “Flame of Hope” to various checkpoints throughout the state. The run will travel through more than 30 Wisconsin communities, ending in Stevens Point for the commencement of the Special Olympics Wisconsin State Summer Games. The Law Enforcement Torch Run began in 1981 to raise money and awareness for the Special Olympics and highlight the unique gifts, talents, and abilities of people with intellectual disabilities. In 2017, the Wisconsin Law Enforcement Torch Run raised more than $2.3 million. This year, nearly 9,000 volunteers representing 165 state law enforcement agencies throughout the state are participating in the run. The 2018 State Summer Games in Stevens Point runs from June 7 – June 9 and nearly 1,500 athletes are expected to compete in over 60 different events, to include track and field, swimming, soccer, and powerlifting. |
