The Torch Run made its annual stop in Pierre this week to help raise money for Special Olympics South Dakota, and the event continues to grow in huge numbers. At yesterday’s Athlete Walk, members of the Pierre Wildcats, Pierre’s Special Olympics team, all took turns hoisting the flame of hope as a huge group of athletes, local law enforcement and volunteers walked throughout Hilgers Gulch.
After the walk concluded, most in attendance made their way to the Pierre Law Enforcement Training Center for a picnic, share each others company and play a little volleyball ahead of the Academy Run which took place this morning.
Earlier this morning, law enforcement active members and recruits gathered together in the parking lot of the training center and re-lit the Flame of Hope ahead of their one-mile run through Pierre to the Capitol building. There were also a few athletes in attendance to join in on the run and carry the torch, including Jessica Walker who is a decorated Special Olympics athlete and has found family in her friends in law enforcement and SOSD.
At 6:30 am with the sun rising and the cool air turning warmer, the runners set off for the Capitol with a police escort and the flame in hand. Chants broke out amongst the group as they made their way down Euclid Ave. in unison.
Scott Price, a Watertown PD officer has seen a few Torch Runs in the past few years, but has also witnessed the growth of the program and has seen firsthand what it can do for the community.
Law Enforcement Torch Run Liaison Izzy Mattecheck has also experienced the growth of this event, and seen the impact SOSD has on the athletes and the community as a whole.
The runners made their way through the city and up to the front steps of the Capitol where it all turned to smiles and everyone got to pose for photos with the torch on the front steps, marking another successful Torch Run. The next South Dakota Torch Run will be held in Huron, and the public is encouraged to participate!
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