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This event was established 32 years ago, when Chief Richard LaMunyon of Kansas wanted his officers to participate in a positive event. The torch run now takes place in all 50 states and in 46 countries.
The first Torch Run in Connecticut was in 1986 at the University of Connecticut at Storrs. Since then, it has spread across the state, with many more cities and towns hosting runs. It is now the largest grassroots fundraising event that benefits Special Olympics Connecticut.
This year, the Torch Run in Connecticut was June 4 to June 6, and it covered 530 miles through more than 100 cities and towns. About 1,500 officers and Special Olympics athletes took part this year.
Darien Police Chief Duane Lovello was one of many chiefs from across the state who attended the Connecticut Special Olympics Medals Ceremony at Southern Connecticut State University. The chiefs presented medals and spent time with the athletes and their families, along with organizers and others who attended.
The Darien Police Department does more than just the torch run, though. Throughout the year, Darien officers work to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics at events such as Cop on Top, Polar Plunges, Tip a Cop, Truck Convoy and more. The most recent Tip a Cop event, on June 12, was at the Darien Social. Officers served the customers as waiters and donated all tips to Special Olympics.
The money donated during this event was tax deductible, and the funds go to sports training and competitions for Special Olympics athletes.
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