The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) was organized by the Toronto Police Service for Special Olympics Ontario to support individuals with intellectual disabilities.
The event involved a two-kilometre run and walk to raise funds and provide opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Athletes and the coach of Special Olympics Ontario are marching from the Toronto Police Headquarters towards Queens Park Circle to support individuals with intellectual disabilities at the Law Enforcement Torch Run. Photo credit: Muhammad Hamza
People marched from Toronto Police Headquarters around the Queen’s Park circle.
Richard Warman, a Toronto Police officer and participant in the Law Enforcement Torch Run, said he enjoys taking part in the march.
Richard Warman, a Toronto Police officer and participant in the Law Enforcement Torch Run spoke to Humber News, and told that it was a fun time for him to participate in the march. Photo credit: Muhammad Hamza
“We warm up, we have music playing, and then we hit the streets. Some of us walk, and some of us jog. A lot of us will run from beginning to end. It’s all good fun,” he said.
Warman said that the funding that went to Special Olympics Ontario will help athletes manage their expenses.
“The funding goes to the Special Olympics. It helps pay for the venue, helps with travel expenses, helps provide food, water, and drinks, getting the participants back and forth,” he said.
The opening ceremony began with a speech by Toronto’s acting mayor Jennifer McKelvie who greeted the participants at the event.
“I have the real honour to send best wishes to those who are participating in today’s Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Ontario,” she said.
“Events like the one today opens up new opportunities for athletes.”
Jennifer McKelvie addressed the participants and the event and greeted the Special Olympic athletes and Toronto Police Service and their efforts to host Torch Run. Photo credit: Muhammad Hamza
McKelvie said that the Torch Run in Ontario has raised over $46 million.
“Give yourself a big round of applause,” she said.
The money raised, she said, helps “level playing field and allow these athletes to compete in the sports they love.”
She also said praised the work and dedication of the province’s Special Olympics athletes.
“They embody the very best of the Olympics, inspiring others through their courage and commitment to excellence. Ignited by a passion for sport,” she said.
“Special Olympics Ontario athletes are the paragons of discipline and unwavering spirit,” McKelvie said.
Safdar Iqbal, another participant at the event, said that participating in the Olympics will be a great opportunity for these athletes to improve their skills and talent.
Safdar Iqbal, another participant at the event, said that participating in the Olympics will be a great opportunity for these athletes to improve their skills and talent. Photo credit: Muhammad Hamza
“Of course, participating in the Olympics itself is a great thing,” Iqbal said.
“And it gives them the lifetime experience and facing the world, give them the talent and opportunities and the skill to improve their personality and go on with their daily lives.”